by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In this presentation, Aemetis CEO Eric McAfee took the ABLC 2023 stage in Washington DC to outline the company’s milestones, technology, financial estimates, policy asks, its portfolio of Carbon Zero One projects, and the company’s expansion in RNG, advanced fuels and more. McAfee also picked
Agriculture
(Global Clean Energy) Global Clean Energy Holdings, Inc. (OTCQB:GCEH) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) have signed a contract for the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities Grant for their Climate-Smart Camelina Project. With the signing, work can officially begin on their $30 million pilot project to measure and validate the advantages of Camelina
June 1, 2023
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by Maria Gerveni and Scott Irwin (University of Illinois) and Todd Hubbs (U.S. Department of Agriculture) (farmdocdaily) … What has received far less attention is what happens when the supply of biofuel exceeds the mandate. Given the scale of the renewable diesel boom in recent years (farmdoc daily, April 12, 2023), this is
June 1, 2023
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(U.S. Department of Agriculture) U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Rural Utilities Service Administrator Andy Berke today announced that USDA will host a series of webinars to help organizations learn how to apply for financial assistance to advance clean, affordable and reliable electric energy in rural America. USDA recently
May 30, 2023
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by Richard Syverson (Minnesota Corn Growers Association/Echo Press) Information included in Karen Tolkkinen’s May 10 piece, “Alexandria Senior College lecturer lists possible solutions for imperiled wetlands” was inaccurate regarding corn and the production of ethanol. Wetland status in Minnesota is a complex issue and has changed over the past 200 years
May 30, 2023
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(Agri-Pulse) This week’s Open Mic guest is Neil Caskey, CEO of the National Corn Growers Association. At the time Congress is preparing to write a new farm bill, corn farmers are facing a period of high input costs and declining crop prices. Questions facing the future of ethanol consumption in
May 30, 2023
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Maria Gerveni and Scott Irwin (University of Illinois) and Todd Hubbs (U.S. Department of Agriculture) … A RIN represents biofuel that has been produced and blended into transportation fuel. RINs are tradeable, and the market price of RINs plays a central role in the functioning of the RFS. In
May 25, 2023
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(Aemetis) Operating 40-mile Biogas Pipeline, Central RNG Facility and Utility Interconnect Processes Waste Methane from California Dairy Farms into Renewable Natural Gas for Use as Carbon Negative Transportation Fuel Aemetis/Yahoo!)Aemetis, Inc.(NASDAQ: AMTX), a renewable natural gas and renewable fuels company focused on negative carbon intensity products, announced today that the
May 19, 2023
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(Solutions from the Lane) … The Inventory of U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Sinks, which has been published by the Environmental Protection Agency annually since 1990, offers a look at how U.S. industries—including agriculture—are doing on their emissions. For agriculture, the latest report, released in April, coupled with additional data from the latest
May 17, 2023
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(U.S. Department of Agriculture) Two new programs made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act will support clean and affordable energy, new jobs and healthier communities — The Biden-Harris Administration today announced the availability of nearly $11 billion in grants and loan opportunities that will help rural energy and utility providers bring
May 17, 2023
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by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) The Inflation Reduction Act provides nearly $40 billion for USDA over the next 10 years to improve life and livelihoods in rural communities. Specific investments include: $19.3 billion for climate-smart agriculture on farms, ranches, and forests; $13.4 billion to lower costs for families and support
May 16, 2023
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by Katie Schroeder (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Carbon intensity scores determine, in part, the value producers get for each gallon of ethanol they produce. Today’s CI calculations don’t factor in low-carbon farming practices, but industry leaders like Brian Jennings are determined to change that. Carbon reduction has been the buzzword for
May 13, 2023
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by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) The Billion Ton 23 update is coming. BETO needs a comprehensive biomass resource assessment that is end-use agnostic — for example, MSW and microalgae numbers in BT16 do not represent current BETO Analysis. There is a need to add conventional ag and forestry resources, oilseed
April 27, 2023
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by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) A report filed with the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service’s Global Agricultural Information Network on April 11 discusses the Colombian Ministry of Trade, Industry and Tourism’s (MINCIT) March 15 decision to extend its existing 20-cent-per-gallon duty on U.S. ethanol for the next five years. Colombia currently
April 19, 2023
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by Keith Schneider (Circle of Blue) … Despite pushback from environmental groups concerned about increased water pollution from a new tide of farm wastes, developers across the country see opportunities to build ambitious renewable energy projects to convert crops and agricultural wastes to low-carbon energy. In effect, the Biden administration
April 19, 2023
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The Process and Path Forward for Passing a Bipartisan Farm Bill Wednesday, April 26 2:00 – 3:30 PM EDT The Environmental and Energy Study Institute (EESI) invites you to a briefing on what you need to know about this year’s Farm Bill, including key bipartisan opportunities for addressing the climate crisis. The Farm
April 18, 2023
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(Clean Fuels Alliance America/Biobased Diesel Daily) Clean Fuels Alliance America applauded a bipartisan letter from 16 U.S. senators April 14 that calls on U.S. EPA to increase volumes for advanced biofuels and biomass-based diesel as it finalizes Renewable Fuel Standard volumes for 2023, 2024 and 2025 by June. The letter outlines
April 14, 2023
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(Renewable Fuels Association) E15, the low-cost, lower-carbon fuel blend containing 15 percent ethanol, is now available to drivers in New York state for the first time. One of the first locations offering E15 in the Empire State is the Dandy Mini Mart and Travel Plaza in Nichols, where drivers recently reported
April 14, 2023
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by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) USDA’s Rural Business-Cooperative Service offers loan guarantees, grants, and technical assistance support of the bioeconomy and access to capital for Commercialization of emerging technologies; Production of biofuels and renewable chemicals and manufacturing of biobased products; Service, supply, and marketing industries; Infrastructure; and, USDA’s BioPreferred® program
April 13, 2023
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by Vidya Nagalwade (Tech Explorist) Paper bags are a popular alternative to plastic bags for reducing environmental impacts. … Penn State researchers have developed a method to strengthen paper bags, especially when wet, making them a more viable alternative to plastic bags. Daniel Ciolkosz, an associate research professor of agricultural and biological
April 12, 2023
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by Erin Voegele (Biomass Magazine) The USDA’s Economic Research Service in March published a report that aims to help increase the value of animal manure for farmers. The document, in part, describes existing and emerging technologies that have the potential to increase the value of manure or reduce manure management costs.
April 10, 2023
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by Brian Dabbs (E&E News Energywire) The Inflation Reduction Act is setting up a fight over the climate footprint of biofuels for aviation, with significant implications for the nation’s emissions trajectory, the U.S. transportation sector and rural communities. In coming weeks, the Treasury Department will unveil a new sustainable aviation fuel
April 5, 2023
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by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) USDA Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation Robert Bonnie spent an hour with members of the American Coalition for Ethanol last week, answering questions on various topics and stressing the administration’s support for biofuels. “I hope you know this administration has a strong commitment to ethanol,” Bonnie began.
April 4, 2023
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by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Iowa’s well-earned reputation as a bioscience powerhouse stems from the state’s unwavering commitment to innovation and collaboration. Organizations such as BioConnect Iowa, in partnership with the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA), fuel this legacy by helping aspiring entrepreneurs transform bold ideas into successful endeavors through mentorship opportunities and access
April 3, 2023
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(U.S. Department of Agriculture) U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Texas State Director Lillian Salerno today announced that USDA is accepting applications starting on April 1 for $1 billion in grants to help agricultural producers and rural small businesses invest in renewable energy systems and make energy-efficiency improvements. USDA is
April 3, 2023
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by Adrian Cortez (Office of Rep. Kim Schrier D-WA/Quad City Herald) U.S. Representatives Kim Schrier, M.D. (D-WA), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA) and Chellie Pingree (D-ME) introduced the Biochar Research Network Act of 2023 to increase research funding for biochar on March 21. Biochar is a charcoal-like product created by heating organic material in a low-oxygen setting to sequester carbon,
March 30, 2023
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by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The U.S. Government Accountability Office on March 27 issued a report that includes recommendations on how three federal agencies can track progress related to the Biden administration’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel Grand Challenge. … As part of the SAF Grand Challenge, the GAO was asked
March 29, 2023
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(Office of Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-ME 1st)) Farming has always been a risky business. But today, extreme weather events and trade wars are creating challenges that threaten food production and jeopardize farmers’ livelihoods. We must work to keep farmers on the land and in business. We know that climate change impacts
March 28, 2023
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by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) AgGrid Energy is one of our most admired biogas project developers, and is on a rapid expansion curve as many of the best biogas companies are right now. Rashi Akki gave this overview of the company’s promise and progress, milestones achieved and ahead, at ABLC
March 28, 2023
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U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Under Secretary Xochitl Torres Small today announced two virtual events that will provide updates on funding available under the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) after the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). The webinars will be held over Zoom and will be led
March 27, 2023
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by Riley Smith (Iowa AgriBusiness Radio Network) Alexis Taylor, USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, took her first trade mission trip to Panama. She led a group of almost 30 U.S. agribusinesses, farm groups, state and regional groups, and state departments of agriculture. Taylor says this was a great
March 27, 2023
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by Joanne Ivancic (Advanced Biofuels USA) Every ABLC, held each Spring in Washington, DC, reveals the zeitgeist of the renewable sustainable fuels world and bits of the bioeconomy it intesects. This year was no exception with the following Key Words providing a way to summarize the thoughts and ideas of
March 27, 2023
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by Joanne Ivancic (Advanced Biofuels USA) “You can do good and do well,” concluded Jim Lane, editor and publisher of the Daily Digest at the Presidential Forum on Biotechnology and Biomanufacturing Innovation which opened the Advanced Bioeconomy Leadership Conference in Washington, DC, Wednesday afternoon, March 22, 2023. In cooperation with the
March 22, 2023
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(Office of Maria Cantwell (D-WA)) Tidewater Terminal Company’s Snake River Terminal will supply cleaner fuel to Eastern WA farmers, help meet new state fuel standards, and reduce carbon footprint of wheat, barley, potato harvests U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Patty Murray (D-WA) announced that Tidewater Terminal Company has been
March 22, 2023
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by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In Washington, the Biden Administration unveiled bold new goals for biotechnology and biomanufacturing, plus a new report — a delegation of 14 high-ranking officials are headed to ABLC 2023 this week in the capital to provide first reactions and briefings to the bioeconomy industry on the
March 22, 2023
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(Advanced Biofuels USA) As Congress begins work on the upcoming Farm Bill, Advanced Biofuels USA is well aware of the fiscal restraints that might not allow for increased funding levels for renewable energy or crop development R&D at Land Grant Schools, USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) laboratories, or small R&D businesses
March 21, 2023
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(Diesel Technology Forum) The Diesel Technology Forum issued the following statement in recognition of the 50th anniversary of National Ag Day which is celebrated in communities and classrooms across the country. One day is not enough to recognize the importance of America’s Farmers to our everyday lives. America’s farms are the breadbasket that feeds
March 21, 2023
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(Renewable Fuels Association) The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently concluded the latest round of its Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program (HBIIP), and once again the Renewable Fuels Association helped dozens of retailers apply for, and win, grant awards that will expand the availability of higher ethanol blends like E15 and E85
March 17, 2023
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(U.S. Department of Agriculture) Independent Businesses Submitted More than 350 Applications for $3 Billion in Funding to Expand Domestic Fertilizer Capacity; First Round of Awards Will Spur Competition and Give U.S. Farmers More Choices and Fairer Prices U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced that the Department received $3
March 10, 2023
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(U.S. Department of Energy) Department Also Announces BioPreferred® Program “Excellence in Procurement” Award Winners for 2022 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today kicked off the inaugural National Biobased Products Day and highlighted the accomplishments of people and organizations working to improve sustainability within the federal government. “By designating March
March 8, 2023
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by Lynn L. Bergeson and Carla N. Hutton (B&C Biobased and Sustainable Chemicals Blog) On February 16, 2023, Representative Randy Feenstra (R-IA) introduced a legislative package that includes bills regarding researching the potential of biofuels to power jet engines and developing a commercially viable fuel cell system for cars and trucks
March 6, 2023
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by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In Washington, groups including Animal Wellness Action, the Organization for Competitive Markets (OCM), and the National Dairy Producers Organization applauded U.S. Reps. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., and Dina Titus, D-Nev., and U.S. Sens. Mike Lee, R-Utah, Cory Booker, D-N.J., Rand Paul, R-Ky., Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., and
March 6, 2023
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by Dimitar Alimaskoski (BIO.News) The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) held the 99th Agricultural Outlook Forum last week, where many speakers highlighted the potential of biotechnology and bio-based products. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack opened the event by promoting climate-smart agriculture, sustainable aviation fuel, and other bio-based products for people and the planet. USDA’s $3
March 1, 2023
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by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) The USDA Western Regional Research Center has ~350 people, ~45 in bioproducts & biofuels. It’s part of the Agricultural Research Service, the ARS is the in-house research arm of the USDA. They partner with companies and industry groups to take bioproducts to market. According to
February 27, 2023
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by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) The Inflation Reduction Act provides nearly $40 billion for USDA over the next 10 years to improve life and livelihoods in rural communities. Specific investments include: $19.3 billion for climate-smart agriculture on farms, ranches, and forests; $13.4 billion to lower costs for families and support
February 24, 2023
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by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) USDA’s Rural Business-Cooperative Service offers loan guarantees, grants, and technical assistance support of the bioeconomy and access to capital for Commercialization of emerging technologies; Production of biofuels and renewable chemicals and manufacturing of biobased products; Service, supply, and marketing industries; Infrastructure; and, USDA’s BioPreferred® program
February 23, 2023
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by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Rep. Randy Feenstra, R-Iowa, in February reintroduced three bills that aim to support the U.S. biofuels industry by comparing the costs of electric vehicle (EVs) and flex fuel vehicle (FFVs) fleets, supporting research and development for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), and supporting the development of
February 23, 2023
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by Vanessa Suarez and Alyson Lee (Carbon 180) 2022 was another invigorating year for carbon dioxide removal (CDR), with historic milestones like the passage of the biggest federal climate deal in history and over $1 billion authorized for carbon removal research, development, and demonstration (RD&D). Congress closed out this monumental year with a massive $1.7
February 22, 2023
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by Erin Voegele (SAF Magazine) The government of Japan on Feb. 1 issued proposed biofuel standards for 2023-2027 that address both ethanol and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). A public comment period is open through March 2, with the new standards scheduled to take effect April 1, 2023. A report filed with
February 22, 2023
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(Agri-Pulse Newsmakers) New figures from the Congressional Budget Office added new layers to the farm bill discussion this week Senate Ag Committee member and Iowa Republican Joni Ernst joins Newsmakers to offer her thoughts on the upcoming legislation as well as her thoughts on the prospects for legislative or regulatory changes
February 20, 2023
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by Maxine Joselow (Washington Post) These House Democrats want the farm bill to be a ‘huge climate win’ — … Rather, the farm bill — the five-year reauthorization of hundreds of billions of dollars in agriculture and food programs — could help farmers tackle the climate crisis while feeding the
February 16, 2023
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(U.S. Department of Transportation) The program provides guaranteed loan financing and grant funding to agricultural producers and rural small businesses for renewable energy systems or to make energy efficiency improvements. Agricultural producers may also apply for new energy efficient equipment and new system loans for agricultural production and processing. Program
February 15, 2023
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(Commercial Aviation Alternative Fuels Initiative) · Regional Projects: Accelerating SAF Project and Supply Chain Development through Rural Business Development Grants and Bioeconomy Development Presentation PDF Opportunity Zones Webinar Recording Todd Campbell (Clean Economy Works) Jordan Solomon (Ecostrat) READ MORE BDO Zone Ratings: An economic development tool to attract, de-risk accelerate new
February 15, 2023
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by Emily Pontecorvo (Grist) When Congress passed an omnibus spending bill in December, it included a bit of bipartisan climate legislation that had been languishing on the Hill since its introduction in 2020. The Growing Climate Solutions Act, supported by climate advocates and farmers alike, was devised to get the nation’s
February 14, 2023
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(U.S. Department of Agriculture) The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service today announced it will offer $41 million through the 2023 Wood Innovations Grant and 2023 Community Wood Grant programs to spark innovation and create new markets for wood products and renewable wood energy. Made possible in part by President Biden’s Bipartisan
February 13, 2023
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by Maria Gerveni, Scott Irwin, Todd Hubbs (University of Illinois and U.S. Department of Agriculture/FarmDocDaily) Biomass-based diesel has long played an important role in compliance with the U.S. Renewable Fuels (RFS) mandates (e.g., farmdoc daily, July 19, 2017). The two main types of biomass-based diesel fuels used to comply with the RFS mandates
February 13, 2023
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by Ann Meyer (CSP Daily) NACS among that that see cost of EV chargers as obstacle to Biden administration’s goals — While the Biden Administration aims to take giant steps toward clean energy, three industry trade associations representing convenience stores and fueling centers said Friday more incentives for private investment are
February 13, 2023
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National Biobased Products Day is an annual date designed to raise awareness of biobased products – how they’re made, what they’re made from, their many benefits, and the wide variety of products available for use at home, in the office, on the playground, at construction sites and even in landscaping.
February 8, 2023
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by Jeff Beach (The Globe) Gevo will be making sustainable aviation fuel in Lake Preston, South Dakota. Summit Carbon Solutions plans to capture carbon emissions from the facility. — A renewable jet fuel plant under construction in South Dakota has signed on to the Summit Carbon Solutions pipeline project. Colorado-based Gevo
February 7, 2023
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by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The government of the Philippines is currently studying the possibility of allowing the use of gasoline blends containing up to 20 percent ethanol, according to a report filed with the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service’s Global Agricultural Information Network. The country currently has a E10 mandate in place.
February 7, 2023
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by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) … The FFP was reauthorized in the 2018 Farm Bill as an option to avoid sugar forfeitures. The program encourages the domestic production of certain biofuels, including ethanol, butanol and other marketable biofuels, from surplus sugar. The USDA sold surplus sugar to bioenergy producers
February 3, 2023
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by Abby Brown, Haley Erickson, and Emily White (National Renewable Energy Laboratory) This report provides information on ethanol fueling infrastructure and industry trends over the last 10 years. It is informed primarily by ethanol fueling station location data collected through the U.S. Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center (AFDC) Station
January 31, 2023
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(Minnesota Clean Cities The Connection) The first-ever Clean Fuels Conference took place January 23-26 in Tampa, Florida. Formerly the National Biodiesel Conference, the new event added renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel to its alternative biofuels lineup for applications in medium- and heavy-duty equipment, truck, rail, marine, and aviation markets. Biofuels are
January 31, 2023
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by Danessa Rivera -(The Philippine Star) As the Philippines mulls higher voluntary ethanol blends in gasoline, ethanol producers are looking to bump up investments, but imports are still needed to meet this higher requirement. All in all, this will help lower prices and shield the country from future global supply and
January 31, 2023
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by Philip Basher (Agri-Pulse) The Senate Agriculture Committee has scheduled four hearings on farm bill issues, starting with a review of the trade and horticulture titles next Wednesday. READ MORE Farm Bill 2023: Trade and Horticulture Hearing type:Full Committee Hearing Location:328A Russell Senate Office Building Date:02/01/23 Time:10:00am THE
January 30, 2023
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by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Biofuel consumption in Australia remained low in 2022. Despite new fuel standards introduced for gasoline on Jan. 1, 2022, the ethanol blend rate did not increase, according to a report filed with the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service’s Global Agricultural Information Network. Biodiesel consumption is also
January 25, 2023
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(Express Mobility) The country aims to double the blend to 20 percent by 2025-26, for which it will need an estimated 2.68 billion gallons or 10.15 billion litres of ethanol. — The Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers and the US Grains Council signed a Memorandum of Understanding today for support for
January 13, 2023
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(Clean Fuels Alliance America) Eighteen Clean Fuels speakers testify at public hearing on the proposed RFS volume — Today, Clean Fuels Alliance America and its members testified at the Environmental Protection Agency’s “Public Hearing for RFS Standards for 2023–2025 and Other Changes,” held via teleconference. Clean Fuels staff expressed frustration
January 10, 2023
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The regulatory agencies and OSTP will host a virtual public listening session on January 12, 2023. If you are interested in registering for the virtual listening session, go to https://www.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_IhbckX4VTiacK0AsyiikKQ. If you are interested in additional listening sessions, please contact Dominique Carter at biotech-regulation@ostp.eop.gov. Summaries of the comments offered during
January 9, 2023
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by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Where does forestry fit into the RFS and with the biofuels industry, asks Lee Enterprises Consulting’s Larry Sullivan in this enlightening tour of the past, present and future of forest-based feedstocks. Sullivan goes back to the Forest and Agricultural Sector Optimization Model or FASOM followed
January 6, 2023
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by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The White House Office of Management and Budget on Jan. 4 published its 2022 Fall Unified Agenda and Regulatory Plan, confirming the expected timeline on federal rulemakings related to the Renewable Fuel Standard, E15 sales and the Biopreferred program. According to the agenda, the U.S. EPA
January 5, 2023
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(Environmental Protection Agency/Federal Register) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is announcing the public comment period for the draft document titled, “Biofuels and the Environment: Third Triennial Report to Congress (External Review Draft).” The document was prepared by EPA’s Office of Research and Development (ORD) and Office of Air and Radiation
January 4, 2023
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( American Coalition for Ethanol /Ethanol Producer Magazine) The American Coalition for Ethanol submitted feedback to the USDA’s Natural Resource Conservation Service request for public input on implementation of funding in the Inflation Reduction Act for key NRCS conservation programs to spur farmer adoption of climate-smart practices. ACE CEO Brian Jennings
December 30, 2022
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by Jesse Allen (American Ag Network) There’s good news on the export front this week for the U.S. ethanol industry. Brazil is again suspending its 20 percent ethanol import tariff–a suspension Renewable Fuels Association head Geoff Cooper says the U.S. industry feared would expire in January. “And so, we were pleasantly
December 30, 2022
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(U.S. Department of Agriculture) The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced an investment of $9.5 million to support the scale-up of sustainable bioproduct manufacturing in the United States. Three successful projects are funded through USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture’s (NIFA) Bioproduct Pilot Program, which funds research and development
December 26, 2022
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(Environmental and Energy Study Institute) Roughly every five years, Congress passes a Farm Bill, covering a wide range of issues from conservation to rural development to food and nutrition. Congress is working to reauthorize the Farm Bill as the 2018 Farm Bill is set to expire on September 30, 2023. These
December 24, 2022
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by Erin Voegle (Biodiesel Magazine) The USDA on Dec. 15 awarded $285 million to 844 projects under the Rural Energy for America Program. The agency also announced it is offering an additional $300 million in REAP funding, including $250 million allocated through the Inflation Reduction Act. The REAP program helps farmers,
December 23, 2022
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by James Hoorman (Hoorman Soil Health Services/Ohio Country Journal) Cover crops protect the soil, build organic matter, and promote healthy soils. Some cover crops are used as forages (sorghum, triticale, and clovers) while others are used for grain (barley, milo, oats, wheat, rye). Now a winter cover crop (winter pea)
December 23, 2022
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by Carlos Anchondo, Miranda Willson, David Iaconangelo, Niina H. Farah (E&E News) … The omnibus bill — which would fund the government at $1.7 trillion for fiscal 2023 — would provide $46.5 billion to DOE to “fund programs in its primary mission areas of science, energy, environment, and national security,” Senate
December 22, 2022
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(Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP)/Federal Register) The National Biotech and Biomanufacturing Initiative (NBBI) identified biotechnology regulation clarity and efficiency as a priority of the Administration. Thus, the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP)—on behalf of the primary agencies that regulate the products of biotechnology, the U.S.
December 21, 2022
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(U.S. Department of Agriculture) Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced today that the Biden-Harris Administration, through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investing an additional $325 million for 71 projects under the second funding pool of the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities effort, bringing the total investment from both funding pools to over $3.1
December 15, 2022
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(LanzaJet/PR Newswire) Soperton, GA Facility will be First Ethanol Alcohol-to-Jet Sustainable Aviation Fuel Production Facility in the World — LanzaJet, a leading sustainable fuels technology company and sustainable fuels producer, today joined government officials, industry leaders, and investors to celebrate a major constructiond milestone at the LanzaJet Freedom Pines Fuels facility
December 14, 2022
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by Jenna Hoffman (AgWeb) A reality check on foreign-owned farmland — This summer, a sale of 300 acres of North Dakota farmland raised eyebrows and alarm. The $2.6 million price tag was noteworthy, but the bigger kicker was the buyer — Chinese company Fufeng Group. Various government officials, including North Dakota’s
December 6, 2022
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(U.S. Environmental Protection Agency) On December 1, 2022, EPA announces a proposed rule to establish required Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) volumes and percentage standards for 2023, 2024, and 2025, as well as to propose a series of important modifications to strengthen and expand the RFS program. The proposed volume targets and
December 1, 2022
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(Solutions from the Land) … Solutions from the Land was especially pleased to have been selected by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization to co-host the opening event at their pavilion on Agriculture Day, which focused on issues related to adaptation, mitigation, and food systems. At the event, moderated by California
November 29, 2022
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(U.S. Grains Council/Ethanol Producer Magazine) U.S. Grains Council staff, alongside agribusiness and producer members, recently had the privilege of participating on the USDA agriculture trade mission (ATM) to East Africa. Held in both Nairobi, Kenya, and Zanzibar, Tanzania, the ATM is an example of the USDA’s commitment to expanding and diversifying
November 29, 2022
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(American Coalition for Ethanol/Ethanol Producer Magazine) The USDA has closed its application period for the latest round of the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program, which provides $100 million in grants to pay up to 50 percent of the cost of equipment for station owners to add or upgrade equipment and
November 29, 2022
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(U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service) Project funding may be used to establish, reopen, retrofit, expand, or improve a sawmill or other wood-processing facility in close proximity to federal or Indian lands that need ecosystem restoration and will generate byproducts. The emphasis is on areas of unnaturally severe high fire or
November 23, 2022
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by Scott Richman (Renewable Fuels Association) As a proud graduate of Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA), I was disappointed to read a recent commentary about ethanol by a research scholar at my alma mater. “A Chance to Phase Out Support for Corn Ethanol in the Renewable Fuel Standard,” by
November 23, 2022
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by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry on Nov. 15 continued its work to develop the 2023 Farm Bill with a hearing focused on rural development and energy programs. The Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program, BioPreferred Program, Rural Energy for America Program, and
November 16, 2022
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(FERN’s Ag Insider/Successful Farming) The EPA should increase the advanced biofuels share of the fuel market by 1 billion gallons a year to reflect the land rush into renewable diesel production, said the trade group Clean Fuels America Alliance on Monday. The recommendation would raise the federal mandate for second-generation
November 16, 2022
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by Joanne Ivancic (Advanced Biofuels USA) The relatively new organization, Alternative Fuels and Chemicals Coalition, held their second annual conference November 6-8 just outside of Washington, DC. One benefit of this organization and conference is that they recognize the reality of the intertwining of fuels and chemicals in the practical
November 15, 2022
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by Meredith Lee Hill (Politico Pro) A likely Republican takeover of the House and possibly the Senate is threatening Biden’s agriculture-focused climate agenda he plans to tout at COP27. — President Joe Biden will take to the stage on Friday at the United Nations Climate Change Conference to tout historic investments
November 11, 2022
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(Clean Fuels Foundati0n) The Environmental Science Program hosted the Clean Fuels Sustainability Workshop Nov. 1-2 in St. Louis. It focused on a number of policy, energy, environmental and economic issues impacting the biodiesel, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel industries. The workshop was preceded by a general session with the
November 10, 2022
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(Renewable Fuels Association) Testimony, Comments Provided to Treasury, IRS, USDA — In separate comments and testimony to the U.S. Department of Treasury, Internal Revenue Service and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Renewable Fuels Association laid out the ethanol industry’s priorities as the agencies prepare to implement the Inflation Reduction Act’s
November 9, 2022
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(GrainNet) Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Growth Energy agreed under their consent decree to delay by two weeks the issuance of the proposed 2023 Renewable Volume Obligation (RVO) under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). EPA is now required to propose the biofuel requirements by no later than November
November 4, 2022
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by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The USDA has announced it will host a virtual listening session on Nov. 3 that focuses, in part, on Section 22003 of the Inflation Reduction Act, which provides $500 million in biofuels infrastructure funding. A 30-day public comment period is also being opened. President Joe
October 28, 2022
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by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The Japanese government is seeking public comments on a draft policy to promote decarbonization in the aviation industry. The policy, in part, would require flights to be carbon neutral by 2050 and require airlines to use sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). A report filed with the
October 19, 2022
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by Luke Geiver (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Starting now, the U.S. EPA—with input from other agencies—will have new guideposts and increased interpretive authority for determining the annual renewable volume obligations of the RFS. — Starting in 2023, the Renewable Fuel Standard’s yearly required volumes will no longer be based on the
October 19, 2022
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(Strategic Biofuels/Business Wire) Standardized requirements will be instrumental for environmental credits enabling commercialization of forestry waste-derived renewable fuels — Today (October 12, 2022), the U.S. Forest Service (Forest Service), an agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, awarded Strategic Biofuels a cooperative agreement under its Wood Innovations Program for the first phase of a
October 13, 2022
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(U.S. Department of Agriculture) The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) plans to invest $8 million to support and expand monitoring of carbon in soil on working agricultural lands as well as assess how climate-smart practices are affecting carbon sequestration. This is part of the Department’s efforts to build out a national
October 4, 2022
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by Lynn L. Bergeson and Carla N. Hutton (B&C Biobased and Sustainable Chemicals Blog) The Congressional Research Service (CRS) published a CRS report, updated on September 19, 2022, entitled The Bioeconomy: A Primer. The report provides an overview of the bioeconomy, details the efforts of the United States and other selected nations
October 3, 2022
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Under the Fertilizer Production Expansion Program (FPEP), USDA is making $500 million in grants available to increase American-made fertilizer production to spur competition and combat price hikes on U.S. farmers. Competitive grants of up to $100 million are available to support and expand independent, innovative and sustainable fertilizer and nutrient
September 29, 2022
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Under the Fertilizer Production Expansion Program (FPEP), USDA is making $500 million in grants available to increase American-made fertilizer production to spur competition and combat price hikes on U.S. farmers. Competitive grants of up to $100 million are available to support and expand independent, innovative and sustainable fertilizer and nutrient
September 29, 2022
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(U.S. Department of Agriculture) New Grant Program Will Spur Competition and Help U.S. Farmers Address Rising Costs — U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced that the Biden-Harris Administration is making $500 million in grants available to increase American-made fertilizer production to spur competition and combat price hikes
September 29, 2022
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(Renewable Fuels Association) When Congress passed the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (EISA) that authorized the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), annual volume requirements were specified through the year 2022 for renewable fuels. But that does not mean this year is the end of the RFS. After this year, the
September 27, 2022
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(U.S. Department of Energy) The Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Grand Challenge is the result of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and other federal government agencies working together to develop a comprehensive strategy for scaling up new technologies to produce SAF
September 23, 2022
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by Scott Neuman (NPR) … The government’s conservation programs are meant to bolster farmers’ response to climate change, as (Iowa farmer Robb) Ewoldt and others like him are forced to confront worsening droughts on the one hand, and unprecedented rainfall and flooding on the other. But even with billions more in
September 21, 2022
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by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) News has arrived from Washington that the U.S. Department of Agriculture is investing up to $2.8 billion in 70 projects under the first pool of the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities funding opportunity. It’s become the US Department of Action, as it turns out, the grand ol’ USDA. Big wins
September 20, 2022
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(Gevo) Gevo, Inc. (NASDAQ: GEVO) is pleased to announce that the U.S. Department of Agriculture has selected Gevo’s Climate-Smart Farm to Flight proposal for funding with an award ceiling of up to $30 million. Gevo’s project was one of the 70 projects selected by the USDA under the first pool of
September 19, 2022
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(Solutions from the Land) … SfL’s vision for how farmers can bring agricultural solutions to climate challenges has begun to be realized by yesterday’s announcement by Secretary Vilsack that USDA is investing up to $2.8 billion in 70 Partnerships for Climate Smart Commodities Projects . This is a remarkable and historic accomplishment
September 15, 2022
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by Jasmin Melvin (S&P Global) E15 solution for Midwest states coming: Regan; Biofuel group pushes for nationwide action; Lays out industry priorities for next RFS rulemaking — A promise by US Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan to lift a summertime ban on sales of a gasoline blend containing 15% ethanol in certain
September 14, 2022
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by Stephanie Kelly (Reuters) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency intends to finalize a rule before next summer to allow the year-round sale of gasoline blended with a higher level of ethanol in several states, EPA Administrator Michael Regan said on Tuesday. The EPA has engaged with several Midwestern governors after they
September 13, 2022
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(Agri-Pulse) This week’s Open Mic guest is House Ag Ranking Member Glenn “GT” Thompson. At last week’s Farm Progress Show, Thompson offered thoughts on crafting a 2023 farm bill including an opportunity to chair the committee if the GOP wins a majority in the November midterms. The Pennsylvania 15th district
September 12, 2022
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by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) These slides were presented by Digest editor Jim Lane as part of the ABLC CONNECT episode on Feedstocks and the Bioeconomy Supply-Chain. Here, we explore the available volumes, prices, and distribution of key existing feedstock types, and we look at the R&D pipeline to see
September 12, 2022
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by Bob Larson (Ag Information Network/Washington State Farm Bureau Report) … The same week California announced it will end the sale of new liquid-fueled vehicles in 2035, a heat wave forced a power emergency and a request that consumers reduce demand, including charging EVs. That underscored the corn ethanol industry’s
September 7, 2022
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by Cindy Zimmerman (AgWired) Ethanol was in the spotlight at the Farm Progress Show in Iowa this week and the Renewable Fuels Association was there to promote the high octane benefits of the fuel and the role of biofuels and farming in combating climate change. RFA president and CEO Geoff Cooper, Director of Government Affairs
September 6, 2022
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by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack visited the Farm Progress Show in Iowa Tuesday, the first time he has visited the show since 2012. Vilsack used the occasion to talk about some recent accomplishments, including expanding rural broadband, conservation and biofuel provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act, new opportunities to
August 31, 2022
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by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Fuel ethanol consumption in Canada is expected to grow by approximately 8.6 percent this year, according to a report filed with the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service’s Global Agricultural Information Network. Imports of U.S. fuel ethanol are expected to reach a record 1.5 billion liters (396.26
August 30, 2022
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by Emily Skor (Growth Energy/Ethanol Producer Magazine) Year-round E15 and the RFS ‘set’ are top priorities for Growth Energy heading into it its annual D.C. fly-in this September. 2023 is the first year required volumes of renewable fuel are not specified by Congress and must be set by the EPA.
August 26, 2022
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(U.S. Department of Agriculture) The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced today it will invest $25 million this year for the Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG) On-Farm Conservation Innovation Trials program. Through CIG, partners work to address our nation’s water quality, water quantity, air quality, soil health and wildlife habitat challenges, all
August 25, 2022
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by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The USDA is scheduled to open a new $100 million, 90-day application window for the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program on Aug. 23, according to a document published in the Federal Register on Aug. 22. The HBIIP is a competitive grant program that aims to
August 23, 2022
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by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest)… Some years ago, the RIPE team went down the rabbit hole of transforming photosynthesis,”harnessing the sun to help the feed the world,” on the noble theory that if plants are more efficient, we’ll have more food, fiber, fuel, and what have you. I’ve stood on
August 23, 2022
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by Brady Dennis (Washington Post) … On the agriculture side, the legislation would pour nearly $20 billion of additional funding in existing federal conservation programs that incentivize farmers and ranchers to embrace a range of climate-friendly practices, including planting cover crops, better managing water sources, and conserving grasslands and other
August 15, 2022
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(Commercial Aviation Alternative Fuels Initiative ) There’s more attention on SAF now than ever before. There’s also a lot going on in the SAF space from near-term commercialization, policy pushes, feedstock development, pathway approvals, airline, airport and business aviation engagement, etc. A major focus is the U.S. SAF Grand Challenge
August 12, 2022
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(Greater Commercial Lending/PR Newswire) New Rise Renewables Reno Deploys Breakthrough Technology to Turn Renewable Feedstocks into Diesel that Burns Clean; Project Funded by USDA-Guaranteed Loans Arranged by Greater Commercial Lending — One of the country’s most advanced renewable fuel plants will officially launch operations at Tahoe-Reno Industrial Center in Storey County, Nevada.
August 11, 2022
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by Geoff Cooper (Renewable Fuels Association) As clean energy supporters across the globe celebrate World Biofuels Day, today seemed like the perfect occasion to reflect on two recent RFA journeys to Asia focused on extending the global reach of the U.S. biofuels industry and educating other markets about the value of
August 10, 2022
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In U.S., more than one-third of all available food goes uneaten through loss or waste. Public and private organizations are creating solutions to address food loss and waste throughout the food system – from farm to table. On September 14, 2022, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. EDT, the U.S. Department of
August 9, 2022
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(U.S. Department of Agriculture Agricultural Research Service) Yeasts play a key role in converting (“fermenting”) sugars from plants into ethanol fuel. But not all yeasts are created equal. Some are better fermenters than others because they can tolerate the harsh conditions of the bioreactors in which they’re used. Clavispora NRRL Y-50464 is
August 5, 2022
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by Philip Brasher (Agri-Pulse) Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer announced an agreement with Sen. Joe Manchin on a narrow reconciliation bill that would provide $369 billion in climate-related provisions, including more than $20 billion for farm bill conservation assistance and additional incentives for low-carbon biofuels and rural electric co-ops. The 725-page bill they agreed
July 28, 2022
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by Danessa Rivera (The Philippine Star) The country’s biofuel consumption is expected to continue to recover this year on the back of economic growth, as well as the increase in ethanol and biodiesel demand, according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). … In terms of production, the USDA
July 25, 2022
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(U.S. Embassy in Manila) The U.S. Grains Council (USGC) and Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) signed on July 19 a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to facilitate the exchange of expert knowledge, technical information, and best practices related to the biofuels industry and policy development. The signing ceremony took place during the
July 25, 2022
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(Environmental and Energy Study Institute) Congress continued to focus on the 2023 Farm Bill. The House Agriculture Committee held hearings on the forestry title of the bill and the state of credit for young, beginning, and underserved producers . We are tracking the environmental, energy, and climate highlights of the Congressional hearings in
July 19, 2022
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by Doug Sombke (South Dakota Farmers Union/Argus Leader/Governors’ Biofuels Coalition) President Biden’s visit to Saudi Arabia to beg for more oil seems unnecessary to us — he could have saved himself a long trip by coming to see what is being done right here in South Dakota. Sky high gas prices
July 19, 2022
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by Susanne Retka Schill (Ethanol Producer Magazine) From Minnesota to Nebraska, discussions around performance-based fuel standards are bringing a broad range of stakeholders together. Progress requires coalition building and compromise. Movement towards state clean fuel standards in the Midwest inspired by a broader regional vision continues, albeit slowly. Brian Kletscher,
July 19, 2022
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(Seeking Alpha) • The inflationary forces that are currently at work in the U.S. economy will continue to cause much higher prices for many commodities, including corn. Corn is a primary feedstock for ethanol producers and as its price rises, so do the production costs for many ethanol plants located
July 15, 2022
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by Jenna Hoffman (AgWeb) The Biden administration’s initiatives to cut greenhouse gas emissions in half by 2030 are well underway. New year-over-year data shows ag is playing its climate smart part in multiple ways. According to the USDA, 2020 farming activities in the U.S. made up 11.2 percent, or 670 of
July 14, 2022
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by Jenna Hoffman (AgWeb) U.S. House Agriculture Committee is seeking feedback on the previous Farm Bill in preparation for the upcoming 2023 Farm Bill. Glenn Thompson (R-Pa.), House Ag republican leader, says farm bill feedback is “critical” with 2023 Farm Bill discussions in full swing. “Hearing directly from farm country
July 14, 2022
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by Mark Dorenkamp (Brownfield Ag News) A member of the House Agriculture Committee wants to strengthen the energy title in the next farm bill. Iowa Republican Randy Feenstra tells Brownfield there are so many opportunities for biofuel production and use in Title IX. “Right now to me it’s all about the
July 6, 2022
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USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) invites the public to participate in an informational webinar for the FY 2022 Bioproduct Pilot Program (BPP). The BPP, which is authorized under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, is a new funding opportunity to study the benefits of using materials derived
July 5, 2022
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(U.S. Department of Agriculture) Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture is accepting applications for a new pilot program created under President Biden’s historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to support the development of biobased products that have lower carbon footprints and increase the use of renewable agricultural materials, creating
July 5, 2022
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by Theresa Lieb (Green Biz) … From my conversations with farmers in Minnesota and many other practitioners over the past months, three pockets of work ask for more attention: independent and data-driven technical assistance, program alignment and standardization and supply chain infrastructure for crop diversification. Why are these issues critical? Rethinking
July 1, 2022
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(Alto Ingredients) Alto Ingredients, Inc. (NASDAQ: ALTO), a leading producer and distributor of specialty alcohols and essential ingredients, announced today that it has received a $22.7 million cash grant from the USDA’s Biofuel Producer Program. The Program was created as part of the CARES Act, which provided $700 million to support
June 30, 2022
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by Erin Voegele (Biomass Magazine) Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack on June 23 issued a memorandum to the U.S. Forest Service directing the agency to take bold actions to restore forests, improve resilience, and address the climate crisis. The memorandum, in part, addresses the potential of wood-based sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). One
June 29, 2022
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by Erin Voegele (Biomass Magazine) … Growth Energy’s comments focused on the calculation of biofuel GHG emissions. “The proposed rule would require many public companies to calculate and disclose GHG emissions from throughout their entire supply chain and production cycle,” Growth Energy said in its comments. “How obligated parties calculate the GHG
June 26, 2022
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by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) The commercialization of emerging tech, the production of biofuels, renewable chemicals and biobased products – these are some of the things the USDA Rural Business Cooperative Service is working on. Find out about their Guaranteed Loan Programs, trends they are seeing, the USDA BioPreferred Program,
June 17, 2022
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APHIS Announces Draft Modified Microorganisms Guide Available for Public Comment [open for comment through May 22, 2023]
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is sharing a draft guide detailing the information requirements and process for submitting permit applications for microorganisms developed using genetic engineering and inviting public comment for 60 days. The draft Guide for Submitting Permit