by Ulrika Bergström (Swedish Research Council/Phys.Org) Microalgae can recover greenhouse gases and nutrients from industrial waste. This technology can be used to reduce climate footprint and eutrophication. Lina Mattsson’s dissertation in ecology shows that microalgae can also be used in the Nordic climate, which has previously been considered a challenge as
Farming/Growing
by Emma Foehringer Merchant (Inside Climate News) Supporters of pending legislation see it as an important step toward meeting the state’s climate goals while using its ample farmland. But critics say natural carbon sequestration is hard to measure and verify. — … Today, Solidarity Farms, which sits on a plot of land
by Brian O’Connor (No-Till Farmer) … A study published in the Journal of Cleaner Production found that harvesting up to 30% of corn stover on a field for use in fuel products could increase revenues for growers and decrease the negative impact on the environment, while at the same time allowing some soil organic matter
(Trust in Food) As a prelude to Trust In Food’s forthcoming Carbon Report, this preview details warning signs for the carbon ecosystem and why farmers have been hesitant to join carbon markets. Learn how farmers evaluate carbon programs, how data adoption trends could inhibit participation, and key points to consider
(AgNewswire) The American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) is introducing a new carbon intensity (CI) calculator to the industry this week during the International Fuel Ethanol Workshop & Expo in Minneapolis. The CI calculator was developed as a tool to help producers understand the carbon intensity (CI) of their farms and ethanol operations. There is also a simplified
by Gordon Davidson (The Scotish Farmer) Britain’s hills are alive with suffocating bracken – but a new biofuel project aims to make bracken clearance worthwhile, perhaps even profitable. Jeremy Oakley, of Oakland Biofuels, explains… “Maybe it is due to climate change, to the costs associated with management, to the reduced livestock
by Melina Walling (Arizona Republic/AZ Central) … Scientists in Arizona have been cultivating algae for several years, but this time, ASU researchers are working on a project with the city of Mesa in hopes of turning wastewater byproducts into fuel and other products. They want to harness the way algae naturally
by Emilie Lorditch (Michigan State University/Phys.Org) An integrated approach to land management practices in the U.S. can reduce carbon dioxide in the atmosphere far more than earlier estimates based on separate approaches, Michigan State University researchers say. Their research was published May 31 in the journal Global Change Biology. “Using only land management or
(UFOP/Biobased Diesel Daily) The European Commission anticipates a significant increase in sunflower-planted area for the 2022 harvest to a potential new record. The main reason is the expected expansion in production area for the most important sunflower-producing countries in the EU. According to the EC’s forecast, the EU sunflower area for
by Daniel Cusick (Politico Pro) Even under moderate-emission scenarios, the Corn Belt of the Upper Midwest will become “unsuitable to the cultivation of corn by 2100,” research shows. The U.S. Corn Belt may no longer grow its namesake commodity by century’s end unless farmers take a more sustainable approach to
(AUGA/NGV Journal) In autumn 2021, the organic food producer AUGA group, AB introduced the world’s first biomethane and electric tractor – the AUGA M1 − for professional use. This year, the company, together with one of the strongest agricultural machinery manufacturers in the region, Akcinė bendrovė Rokiškis Machine Factory, begins to
(U.S. Department of Energy) On May 5, 2022, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Solar Energy Technologies Office (SETO) announced the Foundational Agrivoltaic Research for Megawatt Scale (FARMS) funding opportunity, which will award $8 million in funding for projects that examine how agrivoltaics can scale up to provide new economic
by Julia K. Green and Trevor F. Keenan (Science Magazine) Although nations are grappling with reducing carbon emissions to minimize climate change risks, they actually need to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere if the goal is to keep warming to less than 1.5°C (1). Although there has been substantial
by Brian Jennings (American Coalition for Ethanol) Climate-smart farming practices, efficiencies at ethanol plants, and the capture and sequestration of biogenic CO2 from facilities puts ethanol on a trajectory to reach both net-zero and net-negative emissions, a trajectory that is unique to ethanol. … (D)uring its final meeting of 2021,
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) At ABLC this spring, Mike DeCamp, CEO of CoverCress shared this emerging seed technology slide guide all about a novel winter oilseed crop that enables Midwest farmers to grow three crops in two seasons! With an ultra low carbon intensity score, find out why CoverCress
(Brownfield Ag News) In this episode of Managing for Profit, Alan Weber, an advisor to Clean Fuels Alliance America and a partner with Marciv, discusses future opportunities for oilseeds that provide climate-friendly feedstocks and cover crops. (LISTEN podcast)
(Bunge/CoverCress/Business Wire) Bunge, Chevron Make New Investments in CoverCress Inc. — Bunge (NYSE: BG) and CoverCress Inc. (“CCI”) announced today a unique commercial partnership to bring a new renewable oilseed and animal feed crop to market. The agreement establishes a long-term commercial relationship between the two companies and supports the expansion
(Iowa State University) An Iowa State University research team that helped develop a demonstration-scale pyrolyzer capable of sequestering thousands of tons of carbon dioxide a year has received a prestigious milestone award from XPRIZE Carbon Removal, it was announced on Friday. The milestone prize provides $1 million to the carbon
(University of Hohenheim) European collaborative project led by the University of Hohenheim shows: Combining bioethanol production with carbon storage can effectively reduce CO2. A significant reduction in greenhouse gas is feasible. This is the conclusion reached by researchers at the University of Hohenheim in Stuttgart. The trick: A combination of bioethanol
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) On this Earth Day, we highlight a very green organization – literally green – Algae for Future. This Portugal-based biotech company has the world’s largest algae cascade raceway and is designing, building, and operating commercial-scale microalgae production facilities. In today’s Digest, an exclusive Digest Q&A with
by Damian Mason (The Business of Agriculture) In February of 2022 a “study” caught wide media attention (as it was designed by its sponsors to specifically do). The study, commissioned by National Wildlife Fund, found that corn ethanol is worse for the environment than fuel derived from oil. Groups ranging
RURAL AREAS are crucial for providing feedstock for biofuel. Sustainability requirements for renewable fuel motivate farmers to implement climate SMART agricultural practices. LEARN more: https://advancedbiofuelsusa.info/tag/climate-smart-agriculture/ Each day throughout EARTH MONTH in 2022, Advanced Biofuels USA will highlight one or more 5-letter words that you MIGHT some day see as
(U.S. Department of Energy) What is the role of bioenergy in soil carbon storage? Bioenergy provides a powerful way to mitigate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, increase carbon storage in soils, and produce sustainable biomass feedstocks. On March 28–29, 2022, the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) Gevo CEO Patrick Gruber presented testimony before the House Agriculture Committee this week on the future of climate smart crops and sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) with updated carbon accounting and a system that rewards farmers for sustainable practices. “Net zero hydrocarbon drop in fuels are what the marketplace
(University of Hohenheim) European collaborative project led by the University of Hohenheim shows: Combining bioethanol production with carbon storage can effectively reduce CO2. — A significant reduction in greenhouse gas is feasible. This is the conclusion reached by researchers at the University of Hohenheim in Stuttgart. The trick: A combination of
by Helena Tavares Kennedy (Biofuels Digest) In South Dakota, The American Coalition for Ethanol submitted feedback to the Environmental Protection Agency’s request for comment on the current scientific understanding of greenhouse gas modeling of land-based crop biofuels. ACE CEO Brian Jennings and ACE Board Director Ron Alverson contributed to the feedback after attending
by Daniel B. Fishman and Anne Otwell (U.S. Department of Energy) National laboratories discover the telltale signs of algae distress to target effective treatments and mitigate crop collapse. — Algae are an exciting renewable feedstock for the future of sustainable fuels and products. One particularly interesting application, which the U.S.
by Alex Brown (PEW Stateline) … The state’s permitting process involves nine different agencies, and the paperwork is so burdensome and time-consuming that few people bother. “There’s a lot of people who are interested in seaweed farming, take a look at that [permitting] flowchart, and decide there’s just no functional way,”
(Bloomberg/Algae Planet) Honda Motor Co. is considering the commercialization of its algae-growing carbon capture technology, reports Shiho Takezawa in Japan’s Nikkei newspaper. The carmaker will test mass production of algae this fall and build a new facility of about 1,000 square meters (10,760 square feet), according to the newspaper. Honda
by Chris McLennan (Farm Online National) Qantas has already started using biofuels in its fleet but wants an Australian industry to develop from trees grown on marginal farming land in the west. — Three big corporate companies have formed an unusual alliance to test out carbon farming in Western Australia. Japanese oil
Monica Prestes (Dialogo Chino) A planned biorefinery will require the cultivation of 120,000 hectares of oil palm, increasing the area planted in Brazil by 60%. An all too familiar debate is underway — Oil palm, known as dendezeiro in Brazil, can produce up to ten times more vegetable oil per hectare than other crops,
by Arianna Baldo and Tjaša Bole-Rentel (RSBBioenergy and WWF South Africa) Invasive alien plants (IAPs) are a scourge across Southern Africa – with species like black wattle and port jackson found across the region. It is estimated that more than 10% of South Africa’s land mass is covered by IAPs to
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest)… The world desperately needs an alternative to fossil hydrocarbons. AlgEternal (www.algeternal.com) solves this problem by growing microalgae at scale faster, more reliably, cleaner and at a lower cost for use as alternative feedstock in multiple products and for carbon capture, water treatment, and soil rejuvenation.
by Cameron Rudolph (Michigan State University) Newly published research from MSU Foundation Professor Bruno Basso shows how some Midwest farmers can see economic and environmental benefits of growing switchgrass, a biofuel crop, on traditionally less-productive land. — Newly published Michigan State University research details how switchgrass, a biofuel crop, can mitigate
by David Frabotta (Trust in Food) Walmart triggered an evolution among its supply chain partners with its 2016 announcement to sustainably source 20 key commodities by 2025. The retail giant furthered its commitment in 2020 when it pledged to become a regenerative company, including a commitment to help protect, manage or restore
(Carbon 180) By focusing on our soils, the US can radically transform the agriculture sector’s relationship to climate change. Yet today’s efforts to promote healthy soils are deeply fragmented. The Soil Carbon Moonshot is a five-year proposal for a coordinated, interagency program to establish the foundational science, tools, and projects
by F. Taheripour, S. Mueller, H. Kwon, M. Khanna, I. Emery, K. Copenhaver, M. Wang (Argonne National Laboratory) The Systems Assessment Center and its collaborators provide a detailed technical review of a recently published article “Environmental Outcomes of the US Renewable Fuel Standard” by Lark et al. (2022). Our review
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Bruce Dannenberg, CEO of Phytonix shared this illuminating slide guide at ABLC Connect highlighting how Phytonix utilizes cyanobacteria engineered via synthetic biology to produce 1-butanol and potentially other higher alcohols. And there’s a sister company, CyanoMega, producing a novel microalgae for the sustainable production for
by Geogg Cooper (Renewable Fuels Association/Minneapolis Star Tribune) Contrary to the assertions of the March 13 article “Ethanol’s emissions clouding its benefits,” ethanol’s environmental benefits are as clear as the blue sky on a cloudless, sunny day. While the article correctly mentions that ethanol’s carbon footprint continues to shrink, the reporters unfortunately omit
(Biofuels International) The European Commission’s RePowerEU proposal to boost EU energy security is an important step to reducing dependence on imported crude oil and ensuring stable domestic production of fuel and food, while continuing the drive to carbon-neutrality. As a proven, domestically sourced technology for reducing emissions from road transport
(Growth Energy) Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor sent a letter to U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Jennifer Granholm calling on the department to address the most recent inaccurate and misleading study by Tyler Lark and others that claims to have been partially funded by the department. The study directly contradicts conclusions from
(USA BioEnergy) USA BioEnergy Announces Completion of Forest2Market Study Affirming Availability of Wood Waste for Renewable Fuels Production — Forest2Market Confirms Abundant Biomass Supply for New Advanced Biorefinery — USA BioEnergy commissioned Forest2Market to conduct an extensive feedstock study, on behalf of its subsidiary, Texas Renewable Fuels, to confirm the volumes available
by John Moody (Illinois State University/Biobased Diesel Daily) John Sedbrook, a professor of genetics at Illinois State University, is in the midst of a project that may prove to be the most important research of his career. Sedbrook and a team of researchers—comprised of faculty and students—are working to rapidly
by Jacob Dykes (Geographical) … Hydrogen, in both its liquid and gaseous forms, is light and powerful. If the supply chain can be made greener and cheaper, it’s seen by some as the long-term solution to decarbonising aviation. But others point to its constraints, in terms of both safety and capacity.
by Promit Mookherjee (Observer Research Foundation) Transport activity in India has increased more than sevenfold over the last two decades, its gasoline-fuelled pathway leading to a rapid rise in negative environmental externalities. To decouple the sector’s growth from high emissions, policymakers are scaling up efforts to deploy cleaner fuels for
(Jatropha JOil Singapore Pte Limited/PR Newswire) NGO-backed Gold Standard certification obtained for Ghana plantation; JOil’s proprietary Jatropha varieties a highly productive non-food crop for multiple sustainable industrial applications including biofuel; Second certification following ISCC certification since 2019 Singapore-based Jatropha JOil Singapore Pte Limited (JOil) has become the first corporate to
by Blair Fannin (Texas A&M University/AgriLife Today) Jet fuel, animal feed among potential products from algae — Texas A&M AgriLife Research scientists are using artificial intelligence to set a new world record for producing algae as a reliable, economic source for biofuel that can be used as an alternative fuel source
by Cristel Zoebisch (Carbon 180) One giant leap for soil carbon – Farmers and ranchers play a central role in the health of our climate and planet. Today, they face more and more pressure from climate change, and one solution — soil carbon sequestration — has the potential to radically transform their
by Tammy Klein (Transport Energy Strategies) On this episode of the Fueling the Future podcast, I spoke with Dr. Dev Shrestha of the University of Idaho about the recent paper he co-authored, “Biofuel Impact on Food Prices Index and Land Use Change.” The paper found, among other things that short term food price
(Eni/Biomass Magazine) Eni and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of the Republic of Mozambique (MADER) on Feb. 28 signed an agreement for the cooperation and development of agricultural projects in Mozambique, aimed at producing oil seeds and vegetable oils to be used as agro-feedstock for the production of biofuels.
(Yield10) Increasing Oil Content in Oilseed Crops is Required to Meet the Projected Demand for Renewable Diesel — Yield10 Bioscience, Inc. (Nasdaq:YTEN) (“Yield10” or the “Company”), an agricultural bioscience company, today announced that 2021 field test results show that the trait C3020 tested in Camelina and C3007 tested in canola produce
by Elena Schmidt and Nicola Noponen (RSB/Biofuels Digest) The urgent move away from fossil resources means that biomass use will be heavily incentivised for the use in fuel, energy and material supply chains and this presents serious sustainability risks which must be addressed. RSB’s multi-stakeholder member community has developed an approach
(Renewable Fuels Association) Following a pledge by members of the Renewable Fuels Association to achieve net-zero carbon emissions, on average, by 2050 or sooner, a new report released today shows that new and emerging technologies and practices could help the industry achieve this vision well before mid-century. “Last summer, RFA’s member companies adopted a
(European Commission CORDIS) The EU-funded ITAKA project has provided a pioneering jet biofuel that will be used at Oslo’s principal international airport, a first for commercial aviation. — The jet biofuel was launched during a public event on 22 January, hosted by the Norwegian Minister of Transport, Ketil Solvik Olsen,
by Helena Tavares Kennedy (Biofuels Digest) In South Dakota, the American Coalition of Ethanol said a report released recently in the Proceedings of the National Academy of the Sciences by Tyler Lark and others brought to life several misrepresentations of the environmental outcomes of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) and refutes three key
by Geoff Cooper (Renewable Fuels Association) A new report published today (February 14, 2022) in the Proceedings of the National Academy of the Sciences, funded in part by the National Wildlife Federation, purports to examine the “environmental outcomes” of the Renewable Fuel Standard. In keeping with their previous “research” on biofuels
(South Africa Today) Government researchers in Indonesia believe oil from the tamanu tree (Calophyllum inophyllum) could serve an alternative feedstock for biofuel to palm oil. They say the plant has shown the ability to grow in burned areas and former mining sites, as well as in waterlogged peat soils. Oil
(U.S. Department of Energy) The U.S. Department of Energy’s Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO) in the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) and the Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management’s (FECM’s) Carbon Utilization Program announced up to $19 million in federal funding for the advancement of technologies that utilize
by Philip Brasher (Agri-Pulse) Farmers who plant cover crops will be eligible for crop insurance premium subsidies worth $5 an acre for the second year in a row. To qualify for the payments from USDA, farmers must report their cover crop acreage to the Farm Service by March 15. Last year, USDA made
by Chintu Das (Krishi Jagran) The Centre, in collaboration with the Karnataka government, has distributed newly developed pongamia (karanj) pod decorticators and oil extraction machines to farmers to improve biofuel production in the country, in order to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s target of producing 175 GW of non-fossil fuel. According to a Science
(RSB) Fuelling the Sustainable Bioeconomy is a project led by RSB, and powered by The Boeing Company. The project aims to help the aviation industry play a leading role in tackling the threat of climate change, creating jobs, stimulating economic growth, developing rural livelihoods and protecting the environment, with key support from
(Solutions from the Land) Members of the House Agriculture Subcommittee on Conservation and Forestry held a hearing with key USDA officials Wednesday that marks an important first step in the development of a 2023 Farm Bill that can be crafted to give farmers, ranchers and forestland owners the best opportunity to
by Natasha Lomas (Tech Crunch) … One example of dubious carbon offsetting involves existing woodlands being repurposed for carbon credits in a way that artificially inflates the claimed credit — such as by claiming a forest was going to be cut down when it wasn’t, meaning there is no net increase in
by Nick Toscano (WA Today) British energy giant BP has struck a 10-year deal with Australian agribusiness firm Nufarm to buy supplies of a sustainable biofuel ingredient that could help clean up the carbon-intensive aviation sector and fight climate change. Nuseed, a subsidiary of ASX-listed Nufarm, announced on Tuesday it would provide
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Cyamonia Bio’s tech for the production of organic ammonia based on atmospheric nitrogen fixation just might be disrupting a multi-billion dollar industry of nitrogen fertilizer production and instead contributing to more sustainable food production. How do they compare to PivotBio and Azotic Tech? Where are
by Shannon Beattie (Farm Weekly) … Since the original creation, it has been further developed and marketed by GO Resources which holds the rights to the SHO (super high oleic) trait that produces an oil used in top-end machinery, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, cooking, plastics, polymers, resins and biofuel. SHO safflower was tested
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Take a special look at how to monetize carbon reductions through futures contracts for commodity PLUS carbon. GIC Group CEO Rick Gilmore shared this illuminating slide guide on how monetization opportunities from the sequestration potential in the agricultural sector, synergies between regulated ETS traded carbon
(The Fish Site) Researchers with Montana State University have been awarded a series of grants totalling $6.4 million to identify ways algae can be used for biofuels and other products as it removes carbon dioxide from the air. — Building on more than a decade of MSU research on the
(Union for the Promotion of Oil and Protein Plants (UFOP)) In 2020, crops such as cereals, oilseeds, protein, sugar and fiber plants, fruit, vegetables, nuts, etc. were cultivated on 1.4 billion hectares worldwide. Most of these products were used to feed the population. Raw materials for biofuel production were only produced on
by Aimie Simpson (Brownfield Ag News) U.S. farmers are ready to meet demand for feedstocks in a growing biodiesel and renewable diesel industry. East Central Iowa farmer David Walton, a Clean Fuels Alliance America governing board member, says the industry is poised to see rapid growth in the next 10 years
(Bio Market Insights) … They source excess algal sludge from natural habitats all over the world, processing it into algae-based resin pellets trademarked under the brand name BLOOM. Manufacturers can blend BLOOM pellets with conventional petrochemical-based materials. Ryan Hunt encountered the plastic potential of algae as a graduate student at
(Federated Cooperatives Limited) Federated Co-operative Limited (FCL) is pleased to announce they have signed a memorandum of understanding to form a joint venture (JV) partnership with AGT Food and Ingredients Inc. (AGT Foods). The newly formed JV will look to construct a $360 million canola crush facility. The partnership with
by Helena Tavares Kennedy (Biofuels Digest) From algal-based wastewater treatment plants and purification ponds with biofuels/co-products in California to aviation fuels and algae strain improvements, MicroBio is leading R&D and innovation of microalgae cultivation for bio products. Get all the details from MicroBio’s CEO John Benemann in this illuminating slide
(American Coalition for Ethanol) In a cosigned letter, the American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE), along with the Great Plains Institute, Low Carbon Fuels Coalition, the National Biodiesel Board, and Canadian Oilseed Processors Association, recommended the California Air Resources Board (CARB) recognize the climate benefits of farming practices in California’s Low Carbon Fuel
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Where are the opportunities for cover cropping? How can non-food, non-GMO, RSB-certified carinata make a difference? How can it be used for oil/fuel and high protein meal? Is it scalable globally? Check out this slide guide from Glenn Johnston at Nuseed. READ MORE
by Jasmine Hines (ABC Capricornia) The native beauty leaf tree could be grown in large-scale plantations on marginal land for biofuel; Researcher Nanjappa Ashwath says the trees could produce 4,000 litres of biofuel per hectare each year; The bioenergy sector could contribute an extra $10 billion to the economy annually
by James Conca (Forbes) … Plants take carbon from the air, build cells, then release some of the carbon into the soil through roots and root exudates. Some have suggested that growing biofuel crops in marginal soils, which generally have low carbon content, might be a way to remove carbon from the atmosphere
by Helena Tavares Kennedy (Biofuels Digest) How can algae crop protection facilitate scaling of the algae industry? That’s what a BETO workshop focused on when it gathered experts in algal research and production, regulatory bodies and agriculture/aquaculture experts, to discuss where comparable issues have been solved or solutions are under
by André Vasconcelos (Global Canopy and Trase/Wilson Center) To examine the role of the international community in shaping Latin America’s environmental agenda, the Wilson Center’s Latin American Program and its Brazil Institute, the Environmental Change and Security Program, China Environment Forum, and Global Europe Program launched a collaborative research project in 2020, Latin
(Bioenergy Insight) Innovative biomass projects across the UK can now bid for a share of £26 million (€30.4 million) in government funding. Biomass, which is backed by the independent Climate Change Committee, will be an important part of the UK’s renewable energy mix, helping it to reach net-zero emissions by
by Ron Kotrba (Biobased Diesel Daily) Global Clean Energy Holdings Inc. announced Jan. 3 that it has acquired Camelina Company España S.L., Europe’s largest camelina crop innovator and seed producer headquartered in Madrid, Spain. According to GCEH, CCE has developed world-class intellectual property (IP) in camelina to support a sustainable biofuels
by Karl Plume (Reuters) … The purpose of cover crops is to restore soil, reduce erosion and to pull climate-warming carbon from the atmosphere through photosynthesis. The carbon trapped in roots and other plant matter left in the soil is measured to create carbon credits that companies can use to offset
(Agri-Pulse)1. Saving the planet by saving the soil: Can cover crops fulfill their promise? 2. Making cover crops pay off: what it takes to cover the cost 3. Cover crops as cash crops: Farmers angle to profit off the practice 4. Direct checks could ignite cover crop surge; crop insurance may play role, too
by Amy Mayer (Agri-Pulse) A minor oilseed may be poised to take on a larger role as climate-smart policies emphasize low carbon fuels and the soil health benefits of cover crops. Camelina is seen by some as a cover crop that recoups a farmer’s investment because it can be harvested instead
(Shoolini University) To purify urban wastewater for reuse, researchers develop a new algae-based bioremediation method — … Recently, based on the fascinating potential of algae to remove a large number of chemical pollutants and various bacteria from water, scientists have developed a new eco-friendly, sustainable, and cost-effective solution for urban
by Helena Tavares Kennedy (Biofuels Digest) Why they do what they do, what net-zero fuels really means, how agriculture and land management plays a role in carbon sequestration, how to track carbon across the business system, how they are working towards 1 billion gallons of low fossil carbon hydrocarbons or
(SciTechDaily/Oak Ridge National Laboratory) An Oak Ridge National Laboratory team has successfully introduced a poplar gene into switchgrass, an important biofuel source, that allows switchgrass to interact with a beneficial fungus, ultimately boosting the grass’ growth and viability in changing environments. Scientists observed the ectomycorrhizal fungus Laccaria bicolor as it enveloped the plant’s
(Blue Biofuels/Globe Newswire) Blue Biofuels, Inc. (PINK: BIOF) Blue Biofuels, Inc. (the “Company” or “BIOF”) and the United States Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service (“USDA ARS”) are collaborating on optimizing the yields of Pennisetum hybridum, commonly known as king grass, a perennial grass biomass crop, that the Company is using as feedstock
by Susanne Retka Schill (Great Plains Institute) As US and world leaders engage on climate change and carbon reduction efforts, leaders in the American ethanol industry have announced pledges and efforts to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The country’s largest ethanol producer, POET LLC, and the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA),
by Tyne Morgan (AgWeb Farm Journal) As airlines work to reduce their carbon footprint, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel are taking flight. Earlier this month, United Airlines successfully completed the first flight running on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), a 100% renewable fuel made from products such as cooking oil, vegetable
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) The Advanced Biofuels Association commissioned LMC International to forecast the outlook for supply of lipid feedstocks to determine their ability to meet the ABFA’s goal of reaching 21 billion gallons of biomass-based diesel (BBD) by 2040 and 9 billion gallons of BBD by 2030. So
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Why they do what they do, what net-zero fuels really means, how agriculture and land management plays a role in carbon sequestration, how to track carbon across the business system, how they are working towards 1 billion gallons of low fossil carbon hydrocarbons or more
by Puneet Dwivedi (University of Georgia/U.S. Department of Agriculture) … Carinata (Brassica Carinata), also known as Ethiopian mustard, is an oilseed crop that can be grown across the southern U.S. during winter months. The oil obtained from crushed carinata seeds can be refined to produce sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). This could
(Praj/Pune Kar News) Praj Industries Limited (Praj) announced an innovative solution to process sugarcane juice into a new sustainable feedstock BIOSYRUP® for round the year ethanol production. Dr. Pramod Chaudhari – Executive Chairman Praj Industries, Shishir Joshipura, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Atul Mulay, President Bio Energy and Dr Ravindra
by Julia Eberhart (Bushel Partners) An industry-first digital carbon footprint measurement solution for agriculture • The seamlessly connected data solution was conceptualized by Bayer and developed in collaboration with Bushel and Amazon Web Services (AWS) • Project Carbonview will enable U.S. ethanol producers to report, analyze and better assess their
(Truterra) In 2022, Truterra will offer two approaches, one to reward recent adopters for their investment in carbon-sequestering practices and one to engage and support farmers through the process of implementing new practices Through Truterra, companies and others looking to buy carbon credits can connect with farmers and support the long-term
by Michael Gilbert (Semios/Ag Funder News) … There are a number of reasons why farmers have been leery when it comes to tech companies with big promises. But the biggest one is the most obvious: they’ve been burned before. Some of this stems from a failure of agtech companies to understand
by Kim Chipman (Bloomberg/Yahoo!) Top U.S. ethanol maker Poet LLC is looking to encourage greater production of climate-friendly grains in a bid to help farmers profit from an increasingly “green” energy economy. The company said it plans to use Gradable — a digital platform owned by agriculture-tech firm Farmers Business
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Gevo’s Chief Carbon and Innovation Officer, Paul Bloom, shared this illuminating slide guide at ABLC in San Francisco recently and is one you won’t want to miss. From feedstocks, land management practices, yields, lowering the carbon intensity of corn, decarbonizing manufacturing, net zero products, and
(Iowa Agribusiness Radio Network/KIWA Radio) The National Corn Growers Association says renewable fuels, such as corn ethanol, are an immediate climate change solution. Each year, roughly 30% of field corn goes into fuel ethanol. Ethanol is the second-largest customer for U.S. corn. During the 2021 NAFB Convention in Kansas City, NCGA
(The Gleaner) The Ministry of Transport and Mining, through the Jamaica Bauxite Institute (JBI), is partnering with small farmers across Jamaica to boost cultivation of the castor oil plant to produce biodiesel for the Jamaica Urban Transit Company Limited (JUTC). Portfolio Minister, Robert Montague, who made the disclosure, said that
(Terravesta) Support for UK bioenergy is gathering pace. On Energy Day at COP26, the government issued a Biomass Policy Statement (BPS) which recognises the role bioenergy plays in delivering both global and UK net zero targets. It’s been issued alongside the recent biomass call for evidence to help develop policies to support
by Helena Tavares Kennedy (Biofuels Digest) It’s barely December yet but some are already having visions of sugar beets, not sugar plums, dancing in their heads, thanks to a new Industrial Biotechnology Innovation Centre (IBioIC) and Scottish Enterprise working on proposals to re-introduce sugar beet as a more sustainable alternative to
(Eni) Eni and the BF Group partner to develop sustainable agricultural products for biofuel production. — Through an equal joint venture (50% Eni, 50% BF), projects will be developed to research and experiment with agricultural seeds from oil plants to be used as feedstock at Eni’s bio-refineries. Furthermore, the agreement between the
(American Coalition for Ethanol/Ethanol Producer Magazine) During its Nov. 10 meeting, the American Coalition for Ethanol board of directors voted to support new policies that credit farmers and ethanol producers for activities helping ethanol reach net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by mid-century. THE RESOLUTION: The ACE Board of Directors supports the
(National Farmers Union) It comes following a revision of official government figures on the greenhouse gas (GHG) emission levels of oilseed rape, originally submitted in the Department for Transport’s NUTS2 report. The previous report had not fully accounted for to improving agricultural practices and yield improvements, which would have prevented some regions
by Tracy Heim (National Farmers Union) … Long before the arrival of Europeans, Indigenous populations protected local ecosystems and preserved biodiversity through land management and farming practices. European settlers did not arrive at an ‘untouched land,’ an idea known as the ‘pristine myth’ of the early Americas. Charles Mann, the author of
(Accesswire/ITOCO) ITOCO INC. (OTC PINK:ITMC) ITOCO is pleased to announce it has selected LATINCHOICE – UNIPESSOAL LDA. in Portugal to Joint Venture as it expands its Nopal Cactus Carbon Capture Program internationally. The ITOCO Nopal Cactus Carbon Capture Program has been developed with great success in Mexico. The program captures Carbon
(American Coalition for Ethanol/Ethanol Producer Magazine) During its Nov. 10 meeting, the American Coalition for Ethanol board of directors voted to support new policies that credit farmers and ethanol producers for activities helping ethanol reach net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by mid-century. THE RESOLUTION: The ACE Board of Directors supports the
(U.S. Department of Energy) The Barriers to Scale: Algae Crop Protection Workshop covered the topic of algae crop protection to facilitate scaling of the algae industry. The workshop convened experts in algal research and production, as well as from those outside the industry such as regulatory bodies and agriculture/aquaculture experts, to discuss where
by Joanne Ivancic* (Advanced Biofuels USA) One of the speakers on the second day of the Alternative Fuels & Chemicals Coalition’s Global Biobased Economy Conference & Exhibit, noted that 5 years ago the bioeconomy was like an old truck stuck in the mud. The driver could get out and try
by Joanne Ivancic* (Advanced Biofuels USA) Investment, Climate smart agriculture. Incentives. Markets. These are words heard repeatedly at the opening sessions of the Alternative Fuels and Chemicals Coalition Global Biobased Economy Conference & Exhibit this week near Washington, DC. The first day of the conference was the US Department of
by Dave Vander Griend (ICM/Wichita Eagle) … Well, in the biofuels industry we have made great strides to not only reduce the carbon intensity of the products we grow and produce, but also to capture and repurpose any carbon we emit. In fact, we have been at the forefront of
by Audrey Changoe (Friends of the Earth Europe/EurActiv) While the EU maintains that ethanol has a role to play in Europe’s shift to clean transport, the production of ethanol is damaging the environment and hurting local communities in South America, argues Audrey Changoe. Audrey Changoe is a trade campaigner with Friends
by Tammy Klein (Transport Energy Strategies) For this video podcast, I spoke with Alba Soler Estrella, Science Associate Low-Carbon Pathways, at Concawe, the European refining industry’s scientific and technical body, Dr. Calliope Panoutsou of the Imperial College London Consultants and Dr. Kyriakos Maniatis, recently retired from the European Commission, DG Energy about “Sustainable Biomass Availability
(Alder Fuels/PR Newswire) In a historic first, Colombia could become a “green” crude, carbon-negative exporter thanks to a strategic alliance between the Government of Colombia and Alder Fuels, LLC. Alder is a cleantech company that pioneered groundbreaking technologies to convert forestry and other woody residue into Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) at a large scale to be
by Sergey Nuzhdin, Kristen Davis, Meredith Brooks, Ann Carpenter, Pierre Wensel, and Cindy Wilcox, (Cluster for Sustainable Seaweed Solutions (CS3)/Biofuels Digest) .. (A) similar marine “Blue Revolution” is the potential key to meet global demand for biofuel, feed, and food security in an environmentally friendly way, without the requirements for fresh
by Katharine Gammon (The Guardian) The Great Plains are being torn up at a ferocious rate – with frightening implications for biodiversity and carbon storage. — … (Patrick)Lendrum led a research team that released a report in September showing that from 2018 to 2019 an estimated 2.6m acres of grassland were plowed
by Richard Pallardy (Neste) Plant biomass, or lignocellulose, is the most abundant renewable carbon source on the planet. It has been around forever, but only now are we starting to grasp its full potential in replacing fossil resources. What makes lignocellulose so attractive as a raw material, and what does
(Renewable Fuels Association) The USDA’s new Climate-Smart Agriculture and Forestry program should prioritize projects that will help farmers and downstream processors—like ethanol biorefineries—measure, verify, and monetize carbon sequestration and emissions reductions that result from new technologies and more efficient practices. This recommendation was one of many suggestions submitted by the Renewable Fuels Association
(AgriLife Today) West Texas farmers dealing with high-salinity water and limited irrigation need an alternative crop, such as canola, that’s adaptable to harsh conditions. Texas A&M AgriLife research will soon evaluate the potential for canola as an alternative crop amid the region’s marginal water sources and extended periods of dry weather. Canola
(National Renewable Energy Laboratory) In theory, over 1 billion tons of biomass could be sustainably collected and processed into biofuels by 2030 in the United States, according to U.S. Department of Energy analysis. But turning that theory into practice hinges on improvements in how biomass is grown, collected, and processed. This
(Solutions from the Land) A strong Solutions from the Land delegation will be in Glasgow, Scotland, for the latest round of UN-staged, global climate negotiations. The 26th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP 26) under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) is being hosted by the United Kingdom
(Georgia Institute of Technology/Phys.Org) Researchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology have developed a concept that would make Martian rocket fuel, on Mars, that could be used to launch future astronauts back to Earth. The bioproduction process would use three resources native to the red planet: carbon dioxide, sunlight, and frozen
(Fuels Europe) A new study by Imperial College London Consultants concludes that the potential availability of sustainable biomass, with no harm to biodiversity, could support an advanced and waste-based biofuel production of up to 175 Mtoe in 2050. This conclusion reinforces a study by Concawe showing that advanced and waste-based biofuels,
(Good News Network) Replacing petroleum-based aviation fuel with a sustainable alternative derived from a type of mustard plant can reduce carbon emissions by up to 68%, according to new research from a University of Georgia scientist. Puneet Dwivedi led a team that studied the break-even price and lifetime carbon emissions
by Rod Nickel and Karl Plume (Reuters) The biggest global agriculture companies are competing on a new front: enticing farmers to join programs that keep atmosphere-warming carbon dioxide in the soil. Fertilizer producers Nutrien Ltd (NTR.TO) and Yara (YAR.OL), agribusiness giant Cargill Inc (CARG.UL), and seed and chemical dealers Corteva Inc (CTVA.N) and Bayer AG (BAYGn.DE) are
(National Renewable Energy Laboratory) A more sustainable farming sector, lower industrial emissions, more efficient biochemical production—National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) scientists and industry partners expect sizable benefits from three new projects to commercialize bioinsecticides, enzymatic carbon dioxide (CO2) utilization, and cell-free biocatalysis. Pulling a combined $750,000 from the U.S. Department
by Cassidy Walter (Iowa Renewable Fuels Association/Iowa City Press-Citizen) … Apparently (Jane) Yoder-Short doesn’t know that the growth of ethanol over the last 30 years was driven by ethanol replacing lead and other nasty octane enhancers in our gasoline. And while someone using tobacco is hurting their health, using ethanol
by Gregor Heard and Shannon Beattie (Farm Weekly) … Australian Oilseeds Federation (AOF) executive officer Nick Goddard said the current prices smashed previous highs out of the water. … The good news extends beyond the farmgate, with Mr Goddard saying crushers, even with the high input cost of canola, were
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Whether you are using novel crops, residues, developing supply-chains, or developing new feedstocks for the bioeconomy, this is an exclusive Digest slide guide you won’t want to miss! Straight from our recent State of the Sector presentation at ABLC CONNECT. READ MORE
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) … Photosynthetic microalgae have been metabolizing CO2 for billions of years in the oceans and lakes of planet Earth and are suitable to tackle planetary-scale CO2 emissions. The resulting biomass has a multitude of uses ranging from (renewable) fuel to fertilizer to feed. … CBC
(Nori) In our first science-focused episode of Carbon Removal Newsroom, hosts Radhika Moolgavkar of Nori and Holly Jean Buck of the University at Buffalo are joined by our new science co-host, Dr. Jane Zelikova, executive director of the Soil Carbon Solutions Center and joint faculty in crop and soil science at Colorado State University. First this week, we’re looking
(CGIAR) The Government of India’s concerted efforts to replace 20% fossil fuels with ethanol blends by 2025 is attracting agricultural entrepreneurs to invest in renewable energy. This week, Mr Lalit Jhawar and Mr Mayank Gupta, two young IIT graduates running a profitable farming venture in Maharashtra, accompanied by biofuel experts Mr YB
(Bio Market Insights) … Forestry: Mostex Global Solutions: Integrated whole tree extraction and on site pre-processing of under-yielding forest resources Mostex was set up with the aim of reducing the corrosive nature of agri-feedstock, establishing effective methods of handling this material and improving yields. The group’s mobile, modular steam explosion processing system
by Ron Kotrba (Biobased Diesel Daily) Global Clean Energy Holdings Inc. is relocating headquarters for its camelina feedstock subsidiary Sustainable Oils Inc. to a new facility in Great Falls, Montana, where its crop-innovation programs, commercial-grower support, and executive and administrative activities will be consolidated. Migration to the new site is expected
by Helena Tavares Kennedy (Biofuels Digest) Pluton is a large body of intrusive igneous rock according to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, and “breaking ground” and being “ground breaking” is just what Pluton Biosciences is doing with their novel microbes. They are making discovery of novel microbes not only possible, but commercially viable.
by Steven Hermans (Phyconomy) Former CEO of Catalina Sea Ranch Phil Cruver is developing a submersible cage system to take tropical seaweed farming offshore and into a new era. In addition to providing higher yields, the cages should also protect from predators, storms and ice-ice disease. In 2010, KZO Sea Farms developed
by Desmond Butler (Washington Post) … Global Witness’s two-year investigation is a rare behind-the-scenes look at the corruption, labor abuses and destructive environmental practices in an industry that is clearing carbon-rich rainforests and emitting greenhouse gases at a rate that has become a growing concern for climate scientists. The world’s
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack announced today an investment of more than $146 million in sustainable agricultural research projects aimed at improving a robust, resilient, climate-smart food and agricultural system. This investment is made under the National Institute of Food and Agriculture’s (NIFA) Sustainable
(Eni) In the occasion of the meeting held yesterday between the President of the Republic of Angola João Gonçalves Lourenço and the CEO of Eni Claudio Descalzi, Eni Angola, ANPG and Sonangol signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the joint development of the agro-biofuel sector in the country. Under the
by Christopher M. Matthews (Wall Street Journal) The oil giant, under pressure to address climate change, says it is getting closer to making the biofuel viable — Some scientists regard Exxon Mobil Corp.’s long-running quest to turn algae into a transportation fuel as little more than a PR stunt. The oil
(Climate Now) Planting trees has become a bit of a cliché in the fight against climate change, with ubiquitous photos of presidents and CEOs planting trees to show they are serious about climate. But, how much impact on atmospheric carbon dioxide can tree planting really have, and how do we
(Eni) Eni, Republic of Congo sign MoU on joint development of bio-refining agro-feedstock sector; Eni delegation led by CEO Descalzi met President Sassou Nguesso to discuss agricultural programs and gas valorization also with reference to access to energy for domestic market At the presence of the Prime Minister of the
(Solutions from the Land) … Those who advocate for no- and low-carbon fuels and other energy solutions come from across political parties – Democrats and Republicans – and from all along the spectrum of partisan views – from liberals to conservatives. The spread of support across the aisle comes at a
by Todd Neeley (DTN Progressive Farmer) … The agency announced on Wednesday plans to tap funds from the Commodity Credit Corp. as part of what USDA calls a “comprehensive investment package.” The $3 billion package is aimed at supporting drought resilience and response, animal disease prevention, market disruption relief and purchase
AUGA Group, AB Presents the First Technology for the “Green” Food Chain – a Climate-Friendly Tractor
(AUGA Group/Globe Newsire) AUGA group, AB (hereinafter the Company) Europe’s largest vertically integrated organic food producer, has developed and presented the world’s first hybrid biomethane and electric tractor for professional farm use – AUGA M1. This is the company’s first step in offering technological solutions that will eliminate climate pollution throughout the food supply chain, from field to table, and allow food to
(Oxfam) First-generation biofuels have a somewhat paradoxical status. On the one hand, they have become key ingredients in the EU’s ‘Green Deal’ priorities. On the other hand, they have fuelled all kinds of environmental, social and political disruptions, and unleashed massive transformations – particularly in the Global South – because of
by Emily Smith (Trust in Food) During Farm Journal’s 2021 Sustainable Produce Summit that took place earlier this month, a key theme of effectively communicating sustainable food and agriculture stories to consumers came through again and again. As specialty crop growers and food retailers make changes to meet both environmental needs
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will invest nearly $75 million for 15 partner-led projects to address natural resource concerns on private lands. This year, projects funded by the Regional Conservation Partnership Program’s (RCPP) Alternative Funding Arrangements (AFA) focus on climate-smart agriculture and forestry and other conservation