(Southern California Gas Co./Biomass Magazine) Southern California Gas Co. (SoCalGas) today announced the California Energy Commission (CEC) has awarded the company a $3 million grant to fund the next phase of development of a new technology that doubles the amount of renewable energy created
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) The pace of bioeconomy invention and change continues at a frenetic pace. Here are the top innovations for the week of April 17th. In today’s Digest, beyond beef with no cow, sunflower crop waste for phone cases
by Erin Voegele (Biomass Magazine) U.S. EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler recently informed federal lawmakers that the agency is working on a rulemaking that will define biomass as carbon neutral. A proposed rule is expected to be released this summer. ... During the hearing,
(Spero Renewables/Online PR News) Spero Renewables Awarded $1.6 Million to Develop & Scale-up SPERLU™ Biomass-based Polymers Production -- Spero Renewables, LLC, a Green chemistry company today announced a $1.6 million cooperative agreement with the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable energy division of the Department of
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Joint BioEnergy Institute is a U.S. Department of Energy Bioenergy Research Center dedicated to developing advanced biofuels—liquid fuels derived from the solar energy stored in plant biomass that can replace gasoline, diesel and jet fuels. Inside
by Dr. David Daggett and the Rev. Jeannine Daggett, Shelton (The Olympian) We have a good opportunity for a job-producing, environment-saving biofuel processing plant in Western Washington. I started the biofuel program at Boeing and our Alaska Airline team flew a 737
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Iogen is a leading biotechnology firm specializing in transforming cellulosic ethanol biofuels into real, reliable and cost-effective fuels for today’s cars and trucks. Iogen specializes in developing, designing, de-bugging, scaling-up and deploying cellulosic biofuel technology. Brian Foody, CEO
(Solutions from the Land) Smart Agriculture: Solutions from the Land (OSA:SfL), A Call to Action for Ohio's Food System and Agricultural Economy," Solutions from the Land's (SfL) integrated, land management model was validated by a diverse range of stakeholders from around the
by Erin Voegele (Biomass Magazine) Emissions Reduction Alberta recently announced funding to support several projects through its Partnership Intake Program, including a biorefinery that will produce ethanol and biogas and a technology that will utilize biomass waste materials in the production
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Velocys has developed proprietary and commercially-proven Fischer-Tropsch technology that can cost effectively produce low-carbon fuels from a variety of waste materials, including woody biomass and municipal solid waste, at a scale that matches feedstock collection logistics. Philipp
(Scion Research) Crown research institute Scion congratulates the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment on his report Farms, forests and fossil fuels: The next great landscape transformation released today. Scion CEO Dr Julian Elder says the report’s proposal to take a “landscape approach”
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) According to (Gevo CEO Patrick) Gruber, Gevo is working to decarbonize its biorefinery in Luverne, Minnesota, in an effort to improve profitability. He said the company thinks it’s possible to make significant improvements in
(Södra/Cision) A transition of the transport sector will require new solutions and a changed market. As part of the process to achieve its fossil-free targets by 2030, Södra is now earmarking an investment of SEK 20 million for the additional costs
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) It’s all very rosy on the cellulosic potential frontier. As Gevo and Renmatix recently observed, “cellulosic sugars are one of the most abundant feedstocks in the world, and in many geographies with dense vegetation, using woody
by Lejla Charif (Maersk) Convinced of the urgency to act on climate, a group of Dutch multinationals - FrieslandCampina, Heineken, Philips, DSM, Shell and Unilever - all members of the Dutch Sustainable Growth Coalition (DSGC), will join forces with A.P. Moller -
by Julie St. Louis (Courthouse News) Chinese scientists have developed a new plant-based biofuel that could help the aviation industry “go green,” according to research published in the journal Joule Thursday. Researchers say the magic of this biofuel, derived from cellulose, is its high-density state
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) International Energy Agencyis an autonomous organization that works to ensure reliable, affordable and clean energy for its 30 member countries and beyond. Professor Mark Brown, Director of Forest Industries Research Centre – USC, IEA Bioenergy Exco Rep for
by Elisa Iannunzio (Energy Magazine) The Queensland Government has opened up expressions of interest for its new $5 million Queensland Waste to Biofutures Fund (W2B Fund). The fund will help Queensland companies find innovative ways to convert waste into bio-based products –
(Biofuels International) A wheat-based biofuels facility in Alberta, Canada has received CAD$5 million in funding from Emissions Reduction Alberta (ERA) in an effort to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the province, ERA has announced. Known as Project Wheatland, the CAD$285 million
(Stora Enso/PR Newswire/FinanzNachrichten) Stora Enso is investing EUR 5 million to build a new production line and related infrastructure to manufacture formed fiber products at Hylte Mill in Sweden. The formed fiber technology enables manufacturing of products that are designed for circularity, meaning that
by D'Lyn Ford and Jack Wang (North Carolina State University News) North Carolina State University researchers have uncovered how a complex network of transcription factors switch wood formation genes on and off. Understanding this transcriptional regulatory network has applications for modifying wood
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Sweetwater Energy has developed a unique and patented technology for producing low-cost sugars and clean lignin fiber from multiple non-food plant materials to help meet the modern world’s increasing demand for biochemicals, bioplastics and biofuels. Jack Baron,
(SCA Forest Products) SCA will commence an environmental impact assessment of a possible biorefinery in connection with the Östrand pulp mill in Timrå. SCA has invested SEK 50 Million in a pilot plant for production of biofuels from black liquor at the
(Benzinga) Biofuels created by recycling used cooking oils are being tested by ocean-going ships in pilot trials around the world. Such biofuels may even be gaining acceptance by ocean-shippers, freight forwarders and ship operators. The latest news is from international container ocean carrier
by Joseph O’Sullivan and Hal Bernton (Seattle Times) Washington House Democrats approved clean-fuels legislation Tuesday night after overcoming fierce Republican opposition that was expressed in an hourslong floor debate. House Bill 1110, which would lower the greenhouse gas emissions from transportation fuels,
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Gregory Benz, from Benz Technology International and a member of Lee Enterprises Consulting offers this illuminating overview of wet conversion agitation systems like solids mixers and turbine agitators, various test summaries, and more. READ MORE
(GoodShipping Program) IKEA Transport & Logistics Services, CMA CGM, the GoodShipping Program and the Port of Rotterdam have today announced they will cooperate in a first of its kind partnership to test and scale the use of sustainable marine bio-fuel oil.
(Biorenewable Deployment Consortium) The Biorenewable Deployment Consortium (BDC) honored Borregaard LignoTech with the organization’s Spring 2019 Achievement Award for their outstanding achievements and continuous contributions as the world leader in the development of lignin based renewable products. “The Biorenewable Deployment Consortium
(Berkeley News) The passalid beetle’s unique gut architecture helps it transform decaying wood into energy-rich materials. -- Decaying wood doesn’t make the most nutritious food, but the long-horned passalid beetle has evolved to make the best of it. The guts of
by Scott Reid (The Scotsman) ... The multi-million dollar contract has been awarded by IR1 Group, which is building the Red Rock Biofuels facility in Lakeview, Oregon. Wood is contracted to provide construction and mechanical services as part of the project.
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... Port of Seattle Commissioner Fred Felleman noted: “Secretary Mabus advised us to set a goal. If it’s good enough for the Navy, it’s good enough for SeaTac airport, and we’ve established a partnership with 13
(Our Daily Planet) Last week, leaders in the aviation sector met to discuss how to speed the development of the infrastructure and technology needed to wean airplanes off fossil fuels and onto biofuels instead. Airplane manufacturers have until now focused on investing in
by Chris Barncard (University of Wisconsin-Madison) With a few genetic tweaks, a type of soil bacteria with an appetite for hydrocarbons shows promise as a biological factory for converting a renewable — but frustratingly untapped — bounty into a replacement for
by Neil Dowling (Go Auto News Premium) An Australian company funded in part by the Queensland government is now trialling the production of renewable diesel fuel for use in heavy machinery, trucks and marine engines. It is hoped that the trials, to last
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) GoodFuels is the the market-leader in developing and delivering advanced sustainable fuels for the transport sector, offering a cost-effective pathway towards a low-carbon society. Their focus is on the aviation, shipping and heavy road and rail sectors. Bart
(Aviation Tribune) Boeing will begin offering airlines and operators the option of powering their new commercial jet with biofuel for the flight home. The program is designed to further spur the use of sustainable aviation fuels, which cut emissions up to 80
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Michael Wild, from Wild & Partner LLC and a member of Lee Enterprises Consulting offers this illuminating overview of the torrefaction process, implementation indicators, understanding the product, energy balance and GHG comparisons, and more. READ MORE
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In Oregon, Emerging Fuels Technology, has amended their license agreement with Red Rock Biofuels LLC under which EFT will provide its TL8a Fischer-Tropsch technology to provide additional FT capacity for RRB’s Bio-Refinery in Lakeview, Oregon, USA.
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Douglas B. Rivers, PhD,from Sunflwr Consulting and a member of Lee Enterprises Consulting offers this illuminating overview and more READ MORE
(Biofuels International) Political party, Australia-first are trialling the use of 100% renewable diesel to fuel a Scania test engine, with support from the Palaszczuk Government’s Advance Queensland Industry Attraction Fund. Southern Oil’s Advanced Biofuels Pilot Plant at Yarwun, near Gladstone, is pioneering
(GTI/Green Car Congress) GTI has released a site-specific engineering design titled “Low-Carbon Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) from Wood Wastes”. GTI led a team of engineers and scientists to produce a blueprint for converting an existing biomass facility into an RNG production
(BioEnergy International) More than half of the carbon sink in the world’s forests is in areas where the trees are relatively young – under 140 years old – rather than in tropical rainforests. These trees have typically ‘regrown’ on land previously
by Douglas B. Rivers (Biofuels Digest/Lee Enterprises, Inc.) Past, Present and Future Douglas B. Rivers, PhD, from Sunflwr Consulting and a member of Lee Enterprises Consulting, offers this illuminating overview of the U.S. ethanol industry’s history, current technologies, new developments
by Douglas L. Faulkner and Gerard J. Ostheimer (Biofuels Digest) Out of the climate change cacophony, two notes that ring true for us are: 1) No climate fixes can be made without improving the lives of those in distressed rural areas; and,
by Marina Bowie (Biobased Maine) According to the Inventory of U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Sinks (1990-2016), the transportation sector is one of the largest contributors to U.S anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions, at 28%. Of the 28%, aircraft transportation contributes 9% of
by Basten Gokkon (Mongabay/Eco-Business) Environmental activists have criticised Indonesia’s two presidential candidates, Joko Widodo and Prabowo Subianto, for not addressing the negative aspects of palm oil production, which both are pushing as a feedstock for biodiesel. Indonesian President Joko Widodo and his challenger
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Attis Industriesis a diversified company focused on innovation and technology including renewable fuels, bio-based plastics, healthcare and communications infrastructure. At a recent investor meeting, Attis offered this illuminating overview of their proprietary biomass processing technology, Attis’ renewable fuels, investment
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... Highbury was founded in 2009 on the premise that the thermochemical conversion of biomass to syngas is an ideal step toward the production of renewable low carbon intensity fuels. However the challenges associated with first
(GreenAir Online) Three airlines – SAS, Finnair and China Airlines – have each introduced carbon offsetting initiatives for their customers. Starting this month, SAS Group will offset the carbon emissions of all tickets booked through its EuroBonus loyalty programme, which has
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Lorenz Bauer, from LJBILL Chemical Consulting and a member of Lee Enterprises Consulting offers this illuminating overview of biomass and non-recyclable plastic to liquid fuel, landfill and carbon reduction, and more. Lee Enterprises Consulting is the world’s
by Joanne Ivancic* (Advanced Biofuels USA) Asked recently to summarize the most important points about biofuels, here's my top 6 list: Biofuels have a vital role to play in getting us off fossil fuel in the immediate past, present and
(Cortus Energy) Cortus Energy AB (Publ) and Swedish Biofuels AB (SB) have agreed in a preliminary agreement about cooperating with the goal of during 2019, jointly projecting a first commercial plant for production of bio-jet fuel based on forest raw material
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Terry Mazanec, a member of Lee Enterprises Consulting offers this illuminating overview of biogas, what it’s good for, scale, bio-methane, what to do with it, key players, and more. Lee Enterprises Consultingis the world’s largest bioeconomy consulting
(Drax) The first BECCS pilot project of its kind in the world at Drax Power Station – the UK’s biggest renewable power generator, has started capturing carbon dioxide. -- The first carbon dioxide has been captured using C-Capture technology at Drax Power
The BioDesign consortium concept formed in 2017 around a collective mission to build and support highly-innovative Canadian firms who seek to commercialize new bio-based products and develop new sustainable biomass-to-bioproducts technologies. This vision for a strong Canadian bioeconomy would have
by Jesse Stolark (Energy and Environmental Study Institute) The EPA is leaving 200 million gallons of cellulosic biofuels on the table, according to the newly formed Biomass Power Coalition, a group of biomass trade organizations, biomass power producers, and supporters (EESI is
(StockMarketWire.com) Alternative fuel company Velocys said it had agreed to a series of amendments in its licensing contracts with Red Rock Biofuels in order to speed up completion of a planned bio-refinery. The changes were related to RRB's license of Velocys Fischer-Tropsch
(Bio-based News) New study conducts quantitative and qualitative sustainability assessment of bio-based raw materials for the chemical industry An extensive sustainability study carried out by nova-Institute shows that first-generation fermentable sugar is just as advantageous for a sustainable raw materials strategy of
(UPM) The Finnish Parliament has yesterday 6 February 2019 approved a law that sets a gradually increasing 30% biofuels target for 2030. Furthermore, the law sets a world-leading advanced biofuels target of 10% in 2030. UPM welcomes the Finnish government's ambition to
by Tim Theiss (Oak Ridge National Laboratory/Department of Energy) Over the past two years, researchers at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), and the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) have been modeling to understand the costs and benefits of
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In California, the California Energy Commission has issued a Notice of Proposed Award (NOPA) for a $5 million grant to the Aemetis Riverbank cellulosic ethanol biorefinery, and $5 million for West Coast Waste Co., to assist
by Matthew Stone (PRIMA/Biofuels Digest) ... Exponential growth in liquid renewable transport fuel solutions however is still needed to keep governments and fuel providers on track to overarching climate change commitments. To manage the explosive growth, PRIMA has created the roadmap needed
(Calvera/Gasnam/NGV Journal) The Industrial Group Calvera has recently supplied a customer in Finland with several units of their containers for the transport of biomethane, a mobile gas pipeline solution. The innovative equipment is designed under the flexible Hooklift system that includes
by Joanne Ivancic* (Advanced Biofuels USA) With so much talk about carbon taxes, carbon pricing, carbon cost and highway user fee increases, Advanced Biofuels USA updated its proposal for a "Disappearing" Non-Renewable Carbon User Fee to highlight its environmental justice
(Commercial Aviation Alternative Fuels Initiative ) SAJF Deployment Projects Florida, Alabama, Georgia Several developments in Alabama and Florida will enhance opportunities for the Southeast Partnership for Advance Renewables from Carinata (SPARC), a USDA Coordinated Agricultural Project (CAP). The Alabama Department of Economic Development and
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) IEA Bioenergy’s inter-task proejct has done extensive work on the sustainability of bioenergy systems, including over 50 authors contributing to over 25 deliverables between 2016-2018 alone. Martin Junginger, Göran Berndes, Inge Stupak, and Uwe Fritsche from IEA
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... What especially caught industry attention was the teaser that “Attis will use the facility to produce low carbon cellulosic biofuels and plans to invest additional funds to enable it to meet growing demand in New
(Netzwerk Biotreibstoffe) It (January 2019 PyNe43 Newsletter) contains contributions on Electrocatalytic upgrading to stabilize pyrolysis oil Progress towards commercialization at pilot and demonstration scale Pyrolysis of forestry and fishery residue for rural applications. Overview on catalysts to upgrade pyrolysis oils.
by Helena Tavares Kennedy (Biofuels Digest) ... In today’s Digest, we talk about Stora Enso’s story – the renewable materials company that develops and produces wood and biomass based solutions for a range of industries and applications globally – what they
by David Hitchcock (Atlantic Council) ... However, the importance of powering the aviation sector (both military and commercial) through sustainable fuels cannot be overstated. David Hitchcock’s paper, “Ready for Takeoff? Aviation Biofuels Past, Present, and Future,” provides a keen look at
by Jeff McMahon (Forbes) ... "We really need to focus on the feedstocks that are cheapest and most abundant," said Jeff Skeer, a senior program officer for the International Renewable Energy Agency. "And I think there’s a lot out there, not just from the
(University of New Castle) Australia’s $63 billion* agriculture sector stands to benefit from a revolutionary fuel technology that will convert multiple agricultural waste streams into valuable biofuel and green chemical products for the first time. In partnership with the University of
(Attis Industries Inc./Ethanol Producer Magazine) Attis Industries Inc., a diversified innovation and technology holding company, today announced a partnership with Iowa State University for a funded research program to develop carbon fibers for use in a wide variety of applications derived entirely or
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) IEA Bioenergy is working on an inter-task project on measuring, governing and gaining support for sustainable bioenergy supply chains. Uwe Fritsche and others from IEA Bioenergy gave this illuminating overview of the positions, perception and vision of
by Erin Voegele (Biomass Magazine) Shakopee, Minnesota-based Koda Energy LLC is urging the U.S. EPA to promptly process applications to allow biomass power facilities to participate in the Renewable Fuel Standard program by generating e-renewable identification numbers (eRINs). On Jan. 21, Stacy
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In a tale of two Washingtons, the sustainable aviation fuels movement will gather in Washington state in March and in Washington, D.C. in April to seek breakthroughs in the adoption rate of jet biofuels, which have
(Louisiana State University/Science Daily) New research on the United States' most economically important agricultural plant -- corn -- has revealed a different internal structure of the plant than previously thought, which can help optimize how corn is converted into ethanol. -- It
by John Garrity, Dennis Garrity and James Daniel (Next Billion) In rural villages across communities in Africa and Asia, families stay connected with distant loved ones, and benefit from reduced information and transaction costs, by using a mobile phone — but only during the
(Solutions from the Land) ... That opening now allows for the presentation and consideration of a more centered and pragmatic approach like that promoted by Solutions from the Land (SfL) and the other members of the North America Climate Smart Agriculture
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Ensyn produces a biocrude from forest and agricultural residues using its proprietary thermal technology. Dr. Robert G. Graham, Founder and Executive Chairman of Ensyn gave this illuminating overview of their growth in RFO, advancement in refinery co-processing, and
( VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland/Canadian Biomass) VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd has developed a new technique based on gasification, which offers a sustainable way to turn forest industry byproducts, such as bark, sawdust and forestry waste, into
by Seth Ginther (U.S. Industrial Pellets Association (USIPA)/Biofuels Digest) ... There is no one panacea for climate change; rather, we need an all-of-the-above renewable energy strategy that includes wood biomass combined with other renewables like wind and solar. ... In the United Kingdom, where
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Ecostrat has over 20 years experience sourcing and supplying over 5 million tons of wood fiber and organic feedstock in markets across North America. They offer biomass feedstock supply and analytics to understand and minimize supply
(VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd) New unique mobile application puts forest Big Data to more efficient use -- The whole of Europe is feverishly looking for new ways to use farm, forest and fishery resources more responsibly and sustainably
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... This week on 60 Minutes, another unlikely character burst onto the national scene, courtesy of one of the lightest technologies profiles ever investigated on 60 Minutes by the otherwise redoubtable Lesley Stahl, who offered up the story
(Green Science Alliance/PR Newswire) ... Utilizing plants, wood, wood waste, paper waste, and food waste as raw materials for bioethanol production is extremely effective and environmentally friendly. These kinds of biomass are the most abundant raw materials on earth and
by Anna Simet (Biomass Magazine) ... The vast complexities of the RFS extend far beyond these components, but a much lesser-known provision is beginning to attract attention—the role of renewable electricity in the program, and it’s abilities to fuel electric
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) A mere “The Year in Rewind” as we sail into 2019? Not the good ship Digest! Instead, we dust off our crystal ball and offer our predictions for the year ahead. As the sunset of 2018 gives way
by Marc Kellens (Biodiesel Magazine) Marc Kellens, the global technical director for Desmet Ballestra, takes us through the history and future of biodiesel production, identifying key milestones and cultural shifts, including the introduction and proliferation of renewable diesel. -- ... The food-vs.-fuel
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) IEA Bioenergy Task 40’s aim is to focus on international bioenergy technology potential, barriers, and trade as well as its wider implications. Christiane Hennig from IEA Bioenergy Task 40 gave this illuminating overview of key regions, developments, and governance
(The World Bank) Bringing the Concept of Climate-Smart Agriculture to Life: Insights from CSA Country Profiles across Africa, Asia, and Latin America The Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) Country Profile Series assesses climate change challenges and solutions in the agricultural sectors of more than
(UN Food and Agriculture Organization) Climate-smart agriculture (CSA) is an approach that helps to guide actions needed to transform and reorient agricultural systems to effectively support development and ensure food security in a changing climate. CSA aims to tackle three main
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Neste has a strong history of developing, commercializing, and marketing new fuels, including diesel, renewable chemicals, renewable jet fuel, and more. Neville Fernandes from Neste, gave this illuminating overview of their plans for the production and expansion
by Erin Voegele (Biomass Magazine) An executive order on forest management issued by President Trump in late December addresses how rural economies can benefit through the utilization of byproducts created by forest restoration efforts. Trump issued the executive order on Dec. 21.
(Via TT (Google Translation)) During the Alpine World Championships in Åre, all pistols and buses run on fossil-free fuel HVO. A large part of the buildings that are set up temporarily for the Alpine World Cup will be heated by the
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) IEA Bioenergy conducted research on various approaches to creating trust in sustainability of bioenergy through effective governance. Inge Stupak and Tat Smith, IEA Bioenergy researchers gave this illuminating overview of ways to increase legitimacy and gain trust in
by Jonathan Hines (Oak Ridge National Laboratory) Humans have found uses for woody plants since time immemorial—tools, shelter, firewood. Today, scientists are working to add more major uses to the list: renewable, cost-competitive biofuel and value-added materials. Turning trees and waste
(VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd/EurekAlert) Finnish pilot develops a new solution for sustainable forestry New unique mobile application puts forest Big Data to more efficient use The whole of Europe is feverishly looking for new ways to use farm,
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ChemCatBio is a research and development consortium dedicated to identifying and overcoming catalysis challenges for biomass conversion processes. Led by U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) national laboratories, we work with industry to rapidly transition R&D discoveries
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) IEA Bioenergy Task 42’s goal is to contribute to the development and deployment of integrated biorefineries as part of highly efficient sustainable value chains (co-)producing food/feed ingredients, chemicals, materials, fuels, power and/or heat out of sustainably sourced
(Netzwerk Biotreibstoffe) The aim of the EU-funded project REWOFUEL is to demonstrate the performance, reliability, environmental and socio-economic sustainability of the value chain for the transformation of residual wood to Bio-Isobutene (bio-IBN) by fermentation and its further conversion into biofuels. The
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) IEA Bioenergy conducted work on sustainability assessments of bioenergy systems and the carbon balance of forest-based bioenergy. Annette Cowie and Göran Berndes from Chalmers University of Technology and IEA Bioenergy gave this illuminating overview of the methods
(Maine Technology Institute) MTI will award up to $1.5 million in grants to challenge winners, for one or more projects. -- The Maine Technology Institute (MTI) has announced a request for responses to the Emerging Technology Challenge for Maine’s Forest Resources. The
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) California Energy Commission Research & Development aims to improve bioenergy’s value proposition and role in supporting California’s clean energy and carbon neutrality goals. Rizaldo Aldas from the California Energy Commission Research & Development gave this illuminating overview of how
(SkyNRG) This year, Swedavia, the largest Swedish airport operator, received sustainable aviation fuel at five of their airports. With these deliveries, Swedavia is demonstrating their continued commitment to making the aviation industry more sustainable and reducing their own carbon footprint from flying. The fuel
by Laura Lonza and Adrian O'Connell (EAI Bioenergy Task 39) 1. Status of the biofuels industry in the EU The EU is the third largest producer of biofuels in the world. In 2017, North America, South & Central America and Europe had world shares
(Stora Enso) Stora Enso makes an environmental investment in Sweden -- Increased capacity and new, modern technology will enhance the water treatment process at the mill. This will reduce the environmental impact of the operations and help to meet future environmental requirements. In
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Biomass Technology Group develops fast pyrolysis technology and FPBO applications as well as the commercialization of such technology and production of fast pyrolysis bio-oil. Bert van de Beld from BTG gave this illuminating overview of their fast pyrolysis technology
(Department of Energy) The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO) is requesting information on research opportunities related to outdoor algae research, biomass characteristics and feedstock performance, and renewable energy
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) The International Biomass Torrefaction Council aims to promote biomass torrefaction and let the world know that integrated torrefaction process technology is mature, available and happening. Michael Wildfrom Wild & Partner LLC gave this illuminating overview of biomass
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) When the world’s leaders for sustainable aviation fuels have a general meeting the week before the COP24 global climate sessions (this year in Poland), you can bet that the focus will be breaking the “You Can
(Neste) Neste Corporation has made the final investment decision on additional renewable products production capacity in Singapore. The decision is based on a growing global market demand for low-carbon solutions in transport and cities, aviation, polymers and chemicals. The investment worth approximately
by Obed Owusu-Adda (Chatham House) Gitika Bhardwaj speaks to campaigner Obed Owusu-Addai about why solving the problem of deforestation across Africa requires tackling one of its biggest causes – poverty. -- Deforestation is directly being caused by activities such as illegal logging,
(University of Bonn) Study from the University of Bonn assesses potential implications of transitioning to plant-based plastics -- Bioplastics are often promoted as an environmentally and climate-friendly alternative to conventional petroleum-based plastics. However, a recent study from the University of Bonn suggests
by Hilary Crisan-Heavilin (Waste Today) When a construction and demolition (C&D) recycling facility separates wood from other processed debris, it can be used as mulch, compost, alternative daily cover (ADC) for landfills and biomass fuel. Biomass fuel is processed wood that can
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) We have word bubbling up simultaneously from Pennsylvania and Colorado that Gevo and Renmatix inked a joint development agreement to evaluate the commercial feasibility of creating renewable jet fuel by integrating Renmatix’s Plantrose Process with Gevo’s
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In Iowa, white smoke has emerged from the REGI conclave: Tesoro EVP and former Sapphire Energy CEO C.J. Warner has been named chief exec of Renewable Energy Group, at a pivotal moment for biodiesel in Washington and
(CBC News) Timberlands Newfoundland has access to 500,000 cubic metres of timber -- Active Energy CEO Richard Spinks is heading up an operation to bring forestry jobs to the northern peninsula. It's been a long time in the works, but the Great Northern
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... This year, the TAC (Technical Advisory Committee of the Biomass R&D Board) did something about as audacious and rare as shouting loud praise of open markets and democratic values on the streets of Pyongyang. The
(Bioenergy Europe) Today, the Commission has published its long-term strategy for emissions reduction looking at different options to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 80% with more ambitious scenarios achieving a balance between greenhouse gas emissions and removals by 2050.
by Tom Burridge (BBC News) As things stand, the vast majority of ocean-going vessels that transport goods across the globe run on what is known as "heavy fuel oil". It is thick, black and cheap. Dirk Kronemeiier describes it as the "dirtiest fuel
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Bioindustrial Innovation Canada (BIC) is a nationally focused not-for-profit organization based in Sarnia, Ontario, in the county of Lambton. BIC’s mission is to provide critical strategic investment, advice and services to business developers of clean, green and sustainable
(Bioenergy Insight) The Committee on Climate Change (CCC) has published two new reports on land use and biomass and the Anaerobic Digestion & Bioresources Association (ADBA) has responded. ADBA’s chief executive Charlotte Morton said that the association “welcomes these two important reports
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Aemetis owns and operates 110 million gallons per year of ethanol and biodiesel facilities in the US and India, and is upgrading the plants using patented technology to produce lower carbon, higher value advanced biofuels and
(Norwegian University of Science and Technology/EurekAlert) Norway's forestry wastes could meet 20 per cent of its aviation fuel needs while protecting the environment --- Even travelling relatively short distances in Norway's populated south, say from Bergen to Trondheim, two major coastal cities
(Committee on Climate Change) The Paris Agreement demands tougher action to remove greenhouse gas emissions from the atmosphere. We must, at the same time, prepare for the inevitable climate change that is already happening. In this context, current uses of land
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In California, we are now seeing project flow projecting a sustainable $7.63 price for renewable diesel in the California market, where the Low Carbon Fuel Standard stacks on top of the RIN values from the federal
by Ole Petter Skonnord (Reuters) The Nordic region’s most high-profile cruise fleet operator is refitting its ships to make them less polluting, and plans to use a byproduct of rotten fish to help power their new, leaner engines. Norway’s Hurtigruten, best known for
(Enagas/NGV Journal) Enagás’ CEO Marcelino Oreja and Ence’s CEO Ignacio de Colmenares have signed an agreement to develop projects that aim to obtain renewable gases from biomass. The goal is to use excess biomass to generate green hydrogen and synthetic natural
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) A few years back, Research & Markets startled the bio world when they projected that the “Nanocellulose Market by Type (Cellulose nanocrystals, Cellulose nanofibrils, cellulose nanocomposites, and others) would reach $250 Million by 2019, signifying annualized CAGR of 19%
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) IEA Bioenergy Task 42’s goal is to contribute to the development and deployment of integrated biorefineries as part of highly efficient sustainable value chains (co-)producing food/feed ingredients, chemicals, materials, fuels, power and/or heat out of sustainably sourced
by Tim Lougheed (Chemical Institute of Canada) ... Over the past decade, however, this neighbourhood has been evolving in response to emerging environmental and social priorities that promise to alter supply chains that have traditionally been dominated by petroleum. The scene
by Leyla Battista-Channell* (Advanced Biofuels USA) Auburn, Alabama: Home to the Auburn tigers, the “loveliest village on the plains,” and this year’s host to the Thermochemical Sciences Symposium. Previously held at other universities, why Auburn University this year? The Biosystems
by Jesse Stolark (Environmental and Energy Study Institute) And while the bioeconomy – biofuels, biobased products, chemicals, and more – enjoy bipartisan support, the new political landscape means that the biobased sector and stakeholders still need to be on their
(Biofuture Platform) Relevant stakeholders gather within ABLC Global 2018 to discuss a “minimum checklist” of actions to create the right environment for the global takeoff of the low carbon bioeconomy. -- The Biofuture-led Global Cooperation Forum: towards a common preflight checklist for
(Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft/TechExplore) ... Even then, gasoline would still be required to power combustion engines, which will be operating for decades to come. The only sustainable way to keep us mobile is to replace this gasoline with alternative fuels. Scientists at the Fraunhofer Institute
by Esther Taunton (Stuff) Diesel prices could be fixed for up to 12 months in some parts of New Zealand if technology used to turn wood waste and grass into biofuels is adopted here. The technology needed to make biofuels from wood residues, grasses,
(North American Climate Smart Agriculture Alliance) Poplar saplings being grown at the University of California Davis are not expected to survive the rigorous conditions simulating prolonged droughts and heat waves that are being imposed on them. But they are helping a
(U.S. Environmental Protection Agency) Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Acting Administrator Andrew Wheeler, along with U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Sonny Perdue and U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Rick Perry, sent a letter to the House and Senate
by Erin Voegele (Biomass Magazine) The U.S. Forest Service is seeking grant applications for its Wood Innovations Program, which aims to support projects that expand wood product and wood energy markets, reduce wildfire risk, and improve forest health. The Forest Service issued
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In California, World Energy announced a $350 million investment over the next two years to complete the conversion of its Paramount, California facility into one of the cleanest fuel refineries in the world. The project will
(Environmental and Energy Study Institute) 88 Organizations Sign Statement Supporting Renewable Bioenergy and Biomass -- On Bioenergy Day and during National Forest Products Week, we recognize the importance of using domestic biomass for a wide variety of applications: renewable energy, heating and
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) IEA Bioenergy Task 33 is a working group of international experts with the aim to promote the commercialization of efficient, economical and environmentally preferable thermal biomass gasification processes. Here, Anton Larsson gave this illuminating overview of GoBiGas technology, the
(Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory/Phys.Org) Microbes in the gastrointestinal tract of ruminants such as moose help break down recalcitrant plant biomass into carbon nutrients, but how do they do this over the course of seasons when the moose diet changes, and what
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Task 33 is a working group of international experts with the aim to promote the commercialization of efficient, economical and environmentally preferable thermal biomass gasification processes. Juhani Isaakson of Valmet gave this illuminating overview on the opportunities
(Karlsruhe Institute of Technology/NGV Journal) Researchers of the German Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) succeeded in producing renewable methane from a biomass-based synthesis gas mixture in their pilot plant for honeycomb methanation. The quality of this synthetic natural gas (SNG) is
(Solutions from the Land) Today, we join stakeholders around the country in observance of National Bioenergy Day, recognizing the importance of using domestic biomass for a wide variety of applications, including renewable energy, heating and cooling, and biobased products, to improve
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) IEA Bioenergy Task 33 is a working group of international experts with the aim to promote the commercialization of efficient, economical and environmentally preferable thermal biomass gasification processes. Here, Lars Waldheim of Waldheim Consulting gave this illuminating
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... Why the attention? Some of it in the most recent data and news regarding commercial status. TCat-8 has operated for over 2,000 hours with continuous catalyst circulation including a fluid bed reactor, catalyst stripper, catalyst regenerator, quench tower,
(Texas A&M AgriLife Research/Ethanol Producer Magazine) A $2.2 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Bioenergy Technologies Office to Texas A&M AgriLife Research will help researchers investigate potential discoveries for waste products used in lignocellulosic biofuel production, turning them into
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