"Whether it’s a policy to eliminate it, reduce it or price it, carbon is the new currency..." explains Andrea Kent of Greenfield Global and Board Member for Renewable Industries Canada, describing the current Canadian elections. She could also be describing insights
by Andrea Kent (Greenfield Global/Renewable Industries Canada/Ethanol Producer Magazine) 2019 is an election year in Canada and campaigning is already underway. Taking early center stage is climate change. Whether it’s a policy to eliminate it, reduce it or price it, carbon is
by Kristin Danley-Greiner (The Messenger) ... Monte Shaw, director of the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association, said that an estimated 10,000 families are directly invested in locally owned ethanol plants. There are hundreds of thousands of producers who are directly linked,
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 Genevieve Bookwalter (Washington Post) ... Across the flatlands of Illinois, a new crop is rising among the traditional waves of grain as farmers increasingly make the same calculation as (Randy) DeBaillie. Hundreds have applied to host acres of solar panels
by Jarrett Renshaw (Reuters) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency said on Friday it has agreed to conduct a long-delayed study to assess the impact that burning ethanol as a motor vehicle fuel has on air quality. The Sierra Club had filed a
(Renewable Fuels Association) The Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) is pleased to announce its 2019 Industry Award is being awarded to East Kansas Agri-Energy (EKAE), an ethanol and renewable diesel biorefinery in Garnett, Kan. RFA presented the award to the board and
by Virginia Gewin (CivilEats) As sea levels rise, saltwater is entering farms near the bay, damaging crops and releasing legacy nutrients into already-polluted waterways. -- Kate Tully has spent the last few years sampling farm soils, ditch water, and marsh muck
(Environmental and Energy Study Institute) On February 21, EESI submitted comments to New York State supporting the use of E15 in the state to improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gases. New York is one of seven states that expressly prohibit
(GreenAir Online) ICAO’s Committee on Aviation Environmental Protection (CAEP) has agreed to increase the stringency level of a standard limiting emissions of non-volatile Particulate Matter (nvPM) from aircraft engines. The technical committee’s 11th (CAEP/11) triennial meeting just concluded also delivered new technology goals
(GreenAir Online) The Dutch finance ministry has released a paper suggesting the EU should adopt a Europe-wide aviation tax in response growing emissions from the sector. Such a coordinated approach could prevent a shift in air passengers to neighbouring countries,
(GreenAir Online) Europe is pressing the governing ICAO Council to approve at its current 216th Session the emissions units criteria (EUC) that will underpin the eligibility of carbon offset credits that can be used under ICAO’s CORSIA scheme. The EUC are
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) The Renewable Fuels Association (RFA), Growth Energy, and the U.S. Grains Council (USGC) jointly submitted comments this week supporting the Canadian Clean Fuel Standard. The comments to Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) offered recommendations on how biofuels,
by Sharath S. Srivatsa (The Hindu) After successfully flying its transport aircraft AN-32 with Jatropha-blended ATF (aviation turbine fuel), the Indian Air Force is now looking to test its entire fleet of helicopters, transport aircraft and fighter jets to fly on biofuel-blended
by Kelsey Tamborrino (Politico's Morning Energy) Republicans appear to be changing their tone and launching fewer attacks on climate science. Instead, some in the party have touted longstanding support for innovation to address the problem — a sign of the changing
by Philip Blenkinsop (Reuters) CO2 reduction targets of 15 pct by 2025, 30 pct by 2030; Incentives for producing zero-emission trucks; Vehicles group says charging infrastructure inadequate ... The European Union agreed on Tuesday to reduce emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) from new trucks
(Solutions from the Land) Since its inception nearly a decade ago, Solutions from the Land (SfL) has gathered farmers, ranchers and forestland owners, as well as those who serve in their supply chain, in an ongoing conversation on how to meet society's increasing
(South Dakota Farmers Union) In a letter to General Motors Chair and CEO Mary Barra today (February 21, 2019), South Dakota Farmers Union President Doug Sombke challenged the automaker on its claim that 98 RON (Research Octane Number) or higher gasoline
by Jennifer A Dlouhy and Mario Parker (Bloomberg) EPA will propose several options, including position limits; Effort aims to quash speculation and boost transparency -- The Trump administration is planning to propose an overhaul of the opaque market for trading biofuel compliance credits
(U.S. House Committee on Transportation) Today, Chairman of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Peter DeFazio (D-OR) announced the Full Committee will hold a hearing titled, “Examining How Federal Infrastructure Policy Could Help Mitigate and Adapt to Climate Change.” The
(Bernama/Borneo Post) Malaysia and France will hold joint dialogues and strengthen engagements to promote better understanding of the palm oil industry, said the Primary Industries Ministry. Its minister, Teresa Kok said this followed a courtesy call on her from French Ambassador to
by Steve White (NTV-ABC) Nebraska's a world leader in ethanol, but global politics have the industry treading on thin ice. “Tougher together” is Chris Vincent's motto these days. The CEO of Aurora Cooperative stands behind ethanol, even as the profitability has disappeared. ... The
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
by Juliet Eilperin and Missy Ryan (Washington Post) The White House is working to assemble a panel to assess whether climate change poses a national security threat, according to documents obtained by The Washington Post, a conclusion that federal intelligence agencies have
by Ryan Beene (Bloomberg) Trump administration seeking to roll back Obama-era standards; Cars are a flashpoint in tension between Trump, California -- Talks between California and federal officials on vehicle emissions and fuel economy standards have broken down without a deal, three people
(National Biodiesel Board) Policymakers in New York City are determined to reduce harmful emissions from energy sources, and they have made biodiesel a linchpin in that effort. New York City Council Member Costa Constantinides, who represents a portion of the
(Diesel Technology Forum) As more governors look to California for leadership on climate change, they should look to what’s working in California…and it doesn’t have to do with electric cars, but with use of low-carbon renewable biofuels in internal combustion engines.
(India Post News Weekly) A cooperative sugar mill in Kolhapur district of Maharashtra has taken the lead in producing fuel grade ethanol directly from sugarcane juice in the state, a senior official said on Thursday. The Centre had in July last year
by Jeff Fick (S&P Global Platts) Brazilian biodiesel prices dropped to an 18-month low during a government auction this month on growing output and expectations for additional increases to the country's biodiesel-diesel mandate later this year, according to the country's Mines
by Arlin E. Gyberg (StarTribune) The biofuels industry over the last 30 years has produced more product using less energy and water and contributes far less carbon-dioxide emissions than petroleum fuels. -- Across Minnesota, about 25 ethanol and biodiesel plants generate about
by Humeyra Pamuk and Jarrett Renshaw (Reuters) EPA acting administrator Andrew Wheeler rejected a proposal from his staff that would have reduced the ambition of the nation’s biofuel policy over the next three years, arguing the targeted range it included for annual
(Bioenergy Insight) Charlotte Morton, chief executive of the Anaerobic Digestion & Bioresources Association (ADBA), sets out the role that AD can play in helping Scotland meet its climate-change and waste targets. On my occasional forays north of the border, I’m always struck by
by Rachel Chason (Washington Post) Environmentalists are in a position they never imagined: Fighting a solar panel project that would help Georgetown University dramatically reduce its greenhouse gas emissions. They say the project, which involves razing about 210 acres of trees in rural Charles
by Dino Grandoni (Washington Post) ... But fault lines within the Democratic caucus were already visible before the end of the day, with some members urging caution about setting vague and, at times, impossible-to-achieve goals to only fall short. And perhaps most
by Josh Siegel (Washington Examiner) Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, said Wednesday the push for a "Green New Deal" could provide an opportunity for her to revive a comprehensive energy bill she co-authored that would be the first update to the country’s
by Brad Plumer and Blacki Migliozzi (New York Times) ... If the United States adopted an economy-wide carbon tax similar to British Columbia’s, which started small and is set to rise to $37.50 per ton, emissions would start to fall, according to
by Todd Neeley (DTN The Progressive Farmer) As the EPA races the clock to complete a rule allowing year-round E15 sales ahead of the summer driving season, if the rule isn't done by June 1, the agency may have to resort
(Office of Congresswoman Cheri Bustos) Today (February 14, 2019), Congresswoman Cheri Bustos (IL-17) helped introduce the Utilizing Significant Emissions with Innovative Technologies (USE IT) Act. This bipartisan legislation would implement strategies that help ethanol producers develop carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies.
by Jordan Godwin (OPIS/Governors' Biofuels Coalition) The Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) has been involved in preliminary conversations around the possibility of a collaborative effort of Midwest states seeking to establish a Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) program similar to the West Coast
by Todd Neeley (DTN The Progressive Farmer) While General Motors representative Dan Nicholson indicated this week it was important for the ethanol industry to get behind legislation to set a national octane standard -- starting with a 95 research octane number,
(ACT News) An ACT News Executive Interview with Lana Van Marter, Commercial Development Manager, Neste, a front-runner in the production of advanced biofuels and renewable fuels. Lana Van Marter has a unique perspective on sustainability and many of the global challenges we
(National Biodiesel Board/FuelsFix) This year’s National Biodiesel Conference at the Marriott Marquis in San Diego, CA was a resounding success, with biodiesel advocates, enthusiasts, and industry experts from around the country coming together to discuss the future and potential of this versatile biofuel. One of
by Gerardo Fortuna (EurActiv) In an eagerly-awaited decision, the European Commission last week categorised palm oil as a high-emitting biofuel crop but provided some controversial exemptions for smallholders and spared soybeans from the delegated act’s provisions. The Commission act defining the sustainability criteria
by Ben Jacobs (The Guardian) ... Tim Gannon, the Democratic nominee for Iowa secretary of agriculture in 2018, told the Guardian the idea of ethanol as a dealbreaker in the state was “very much a stereotypical thing because of The West
(MyAlbertLea) The Governors’ Biofuels Coalition will name Minnesota Governor Tim Walz to serve as the 2019 chair of the coalition, a move that has the support of Minnesota Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen along with thousands of corn and soybean farmers throughout
(News 18) The government has set a target of 20 percent blending of ethanol with gasoline and 5 percent blending of biodiesel with diesel by 2030 under the biofuel policy. -- Petroleum minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Wednesday said the government is
(Aemetis) Plant upgrades enable production of 50 million gallons per year of biodiesel -- Aemetis, Inc. (“Aemetis” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: AMTX) announced today (February 15, 2019) that its Universal Biofuels subsidiary has built distribution tanks and other infrastructure to begin sales
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Hugh McLaughlin, PhD, PE, a technical expert in pyrolysis, biochar and activated carbon, and Gerald Kutney, PhD, a business expert in pyrolysis and biochar, and both members of Lee Enterprises Consulting offer this illuminating perspective on
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
by Kelsey Tamborrino (Politico's Morning Energy) Energy and Commerce ranking member Greg Walden and Environment and Climate Change Subcommittee ranking member John Shimkus reached out last night (February 13, 2019) on climate change in a letter to Chairman Frank Pallone
by Katia Dmitrieva and Emily Chasan (Bloomberg BusinessWeek) Investing in the environment is already a $12 trillion market. Now markets are just looking for guidance from Congress. -- ... But those worried about where the rest of the money will come
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) A group of advanced biofuel producers are urging leaders of the U.S. House Committee on Ways and Means to extend two tax credits that are critical to the development and deployment of advanced biofuels. On Feb.
(Aemetis) Aemetis Inc. announced today that it has initiated the permitting and construction phase of its multi-dairy renewable biomethane digester cluster. In July 2018, the California Department of Food & Agriculture awarded two matching grants for a total of $3 million
(Biomass Power Association, American Biogas Council and Energy Recovery Council/Biomass Magazine) Three trade associations representing renewable electricity producers today announced the launch of the RFS Power Coalition. The coalition’s purpose is to get the EPA to implement a law passed by
by Maria Church (Canadian Biomass Magazine) The federal government is investing of up to $7 million in a biomass research cluster led by the BioFuelNet Canada Network. Funding for the research cluster will include an additional $3.1 million in contributions from
by Doug Sombke (South Dakota Farmers Union and Farmers Union Enterprise/Biofuels Digest) ... The reality is that the RFS is going backwards, we have effectively capped the use of corn ethanol in the United States, and the EPA continues to play lip
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In Florida, General Motors VP Dan Nicholson told delegates at the National Ethanol Conference that “High octane is essential to realize better efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions,” but warned the US ethanol industry to get behind
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In Florida at the 24th National Ethanol Conference, US energy economist Phil Verleger said “I don’t see how we get through this in 2020 without a major recession,” referring to predictions of disruption in US and
(Aria Energy/NGV Journal) Aria Energy announced the commissioning of a landfill gas to renewable natural gas project at the Waste Connections-owned Butler County Landfill in David City, Nebraska. Aria Energy constructed, owns and operates the project, which processes and purifies up
by Don Jenkins (Capital Press) The New Green Deal introduced last week by Democrats in the U.S. House and Senate does not propose banning cow flatulence, but it does strike at something that powers farm production — diesel fuel. The 14-page
by John Poston MN(R) District: 09A (Brainerd Dispatch) ... Over the past five years, farm income has fallen by 46 percent. One thing that all Americans can do to help is use a biofuel that we make and sell right here at
by Joe Hand (River Cities Reader) Representatives Dave Loebsack and Darin LaHood today led a bipartisan group of their colleagues in calling for a multi-year extension of the biodiesel tax credit. In a letter to House Leadership, the lawmakers called for
(The Hindu) In a bid to tackle stubble burning and boost the renewable energy sector, the Punjab government on Monday signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Delhi-based Virgo Corporation for a ₹630 crore biofuel project. An official statement said that the technology for the
(BiofuelWatch) BiofuelWatch report about aviation biofuel producer WorldEnergy boosts fears that large-scale biofuel use for aircraft would have to rely on palm oil. -- A new report [1] about aviation biofuels, published by the environmental NGO Biofuelwatch [2] today (February 11, 2019),
by Sambit Mohanty and Ratnajyoti Dutta (S&P Global Platts) India sees energy demand doubling by 2040; Still room for oil demand growth in Indi; Biofuels, solar strong focus areas for growth -- India is pushing ahead with its renewable energy ambitions, but that is
(Convenience Store News) The Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) launched an awareness campaign in support of E15 fuel with the launch of a new consumer-facing website and digital ads in The Washington Post. The campaign's goal is to educate consumers and policymakers about the benefits
by Humeyra Pamuk (Reuters) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is considering releasing its draft proposal to expand sales of higher ethanol blends of gasoline without including simultaneous measures it promised the oil industry to curb biofuel credit speculation, according to three sources
(Renewable Fuels Association) Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) President and CEO Geoff Cooper told nearly 1,000 National Ethanol Conference attendees today that while the U.S. ethanol industry had a “tough year” in 2018, it “continued to deliver huge wins for consumers,” including
(Solutions from the Land) In its 2019 Annual Energy Outlook issued this month, the DOE's Energy Information Administration offers projections that make clear the importance of significantly increasing ethanol blends into the nation's transportation fuel over the next several decades. The report predicts that
by Betsy Lillian (NGT News) Arizona Rep. Noel Campbell, R-District 1, has introduced a bill that seeks to impose new fees on motor vehicles, including those running on alternative fuels. According to a press release from Campbell, H.B.2536 would restore funding for critical statewide transportation needs
by Timothy J. Rudnicki (Minnesota Bio-Fuels Association) ... To keep the focus on lowering barriers for biofuel producers and providing the growing number of motorists greater access to biofuels, we have opened up key discussions with the Governor and some
(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
(Agri-Pulse) The Environmental Protection Agency is encouraging states to develop water quality trading programs to tackle nutrient pollution, which has become an increasingly visible issue in farm country. In a memorandum to EPA regional administrators, Assistant Administrator for Water David Ross said the agency
by Josh Siegel (Washington Examiner) Republicans who want to combat climate change say their party should avoid the temptation of rejecting the progressive “Green New Deal” without proposing an alternative. “If the Green New Deal goes down in flames and gets totally
(Renewable Fuels Association) Today at the 24th annual National Ethanol Conference, the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) released its 2019 Ethanol Industry Outlook and Pocket Guide, known around the world as the go-to sources for reliable information and data on America’s ethanol industry. The annual Outlook publication
(U.S. Grains Council) New funding to the U.S. Grains Council (USGC) from the Agricultural Trade Promotion (ATP) Program – part of a larger “trade aid” package offered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture in the wake of new tariffs and global
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Glenn Farris, of Farris Advisory Services and a member of Lee Enterprises Consulting offers this illuminating prediction of the future of ag waste and purpose grown crops, challenges to growing and using these feedstocks, and more. Lee
(Energy Today/The Economist) ... To get from here to there requires huge amounts of investment over the next few decades, to replace old smog-belching power plants and to upgrade the pylons and wires that bring electricity to consumers. Normally investors like
(The California Advanced Biofuels Alliance/Biodiesel Magazine) Gov. Gavin Newsom’s stated goal of eliminating petroleum diesel emissions in California by 2030 is achievable through the growth in the market for clean, sustainable diesels, according to a new report from the California Advanced Biofuels
(Politico's Morning Energy) Senate EPW Chairman John Barrasso and Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse reintroduced their bipartisan carbon capture legislation Thursday. The bill , dubbed the "Utilizing Significant Emissions with Innovative Technologies Act," would support carbon dioxide utilization and direct air capture research,
(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 Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) IEA Bioenergy Task 42 is working on the analysis and assessment of biorefining in the whole value chain in order to meet its mission to facilitate the commercialisation and market deployment of biorefinery systems & technologies. Johannes Lindorfer from
by Matt Thompson (Ethanol Producer Magazine) For the National Association of Convenience Stores, selling E15 is a matter of giving consumers plenty of fuel options. “We like the optionality of being able to have lots legal choices and really sell what
by Chris Prentice and A. Ananthalakshmi (Reuters) In June, the High Seas tanker ship loaded up on ethanol in Texas and set off for Asia. Two months later - after a circuitous journey that included a ship-to-ship transfer and a stop in Malaysia
by Mike Allen and Alexi McCammond (Axios) Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) and Sen. Ed Markey (D-Mass.) have unveiled their Green New Deal resolution — a call to arms on climate and jobs that's long on ambition, but lacking in details and
by Ryan McCrimmon (Politico) President Donald Trump’s trade war is magnifying some of the toughest farm conditions since the crisis that bankrupted thousands of farmers in the 1980s — and threatening a constituency crucial to his reelection hopes. The president’s trade policies
by Humeyra Pamuk (Reuters) The United States has asked Brazil to consider lifting tariffs imposed on its ethanol exports and is hopeful of a positive outcome, a senior official at the U.S. Department of Agriculture said on Wednesday. Brazil currently charges a
by Virendra Singh Rawat (Business Standard) Sugar mills in the top sugar producing states viz. Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh are projected to account for 40% and 30% of the fresh ethanol capacity addition -- Amid the growing clamour to insulate the Rs
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Sustainable Energy for All (SE4All)was created to drive the energy transition, particularly in developing countries and below50 is committed to growing the demand for sustainable alternative fuels that reduce emissions by more than 50% relative to
by Ari Natter and Katia Dmitrieva (Bloomberg) Draft of plan calls for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions; Final Ocasio-Cortez resolution expected to be released soon -- Guaranteed jobs, health care, and housing are in a draft of the Green New Deal environmental package set to
(Union for the Promotion of Oil and Protein Plants (UFOP)/Biodiesel Magazine) According to Germany’s Union for the Promotion of Oil and Protein Plants (UFOP), European oilseed producers are the losers in the Jan. 30 decision of the representatives of the EU
(Diesel Technology Forum) ... An increasing number of diesel engines aren’t running on diesel fuel at all. In 2017, an estimated 2.6 billion gallons of biodiesel and renewable diesel fuel were consumed in the U.S. by a growing number of public and private
by Ron Kotrba (Biodiesel Magazine) Biodiesel’s use in heavy-duty diesel applications continues to grow in California thanks in large part to the state’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard, but how will California’s Mobile Source Strategy—a plan to further cut NOx emissions by
by John Siciliano (Washington Examiner) ... “While we have fought against this administration’s efforts to gut protections for clean air and water, roll-back efforts to address climate change and lease public lands for oil drilling and mining, infrastructure is an opportunity
"The GHG emissions of petroleum are higher than the baseline estimates originally projected by EPA" That's one finding in a new study by Life Cycle Associates. It's also one reason biofuels entering the marketplace thanks to the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) exceed
(Renewable Fuels Association) A new study released today finds that the expanded Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS2) has been a tremendous success in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, with nearly 600 million metric tons of GHG reduction since 2007. Actual GHG reductions under the
(Office of Representative Doris Matsui (D-CA 6th)) Today (February 5, 2019), Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA) led 19 of her House Energy & Commerce Committee colleagues in introducing the Clean and Efficient Cars Act of 2019, which would preserve fuel economy and
by Kelsey Tamborrino (Politico's Morning Energy) FUELING DEBATE: ConservAmerica Chairwoman Nan Hayworth urged National Economic Council Director Larry Kudlow to "avoid or soften the negative impacts" from upcoming international rules requiring cleaner-burning shipping fuels. The Feb. 4 letter warned that
by Nick Cunningham (OilPrice.com) By 2030, oil demand could hit a peak and then enter decline, according to a new report. For the next decade or so, oil demand should continue to grow, although at a slower and slower rate. According to
by Andy Foster (Capital Press/Aemetis Inc.) ... With the election behind us and new leadership in the House, it’s time to take another look at the IPCC warnings and examine bipartisan solutions that Congress can work toward — immediately. High on
by Sarantis Michalopoulos (EurActiv) A delegated act determining the sustainability criteria of biofuels under the new renewable energy directive (RED II) has been blocked in the European Commission as some Commissioners found the criteria “too light”, EURACTIV has learnt. Speaking on condition of
by Ryan Beene, Jennifer A Dlouhy, and David R Baker (Bloomberg) Wheeler, Nichols signal little progress on auto MPG agreement; State shouldn’t have authority on C02 emissions, Wheeler says -- U.S. and California officials agreed Monday on one thing about auto emissions standards:
(Bioenergy Insight) AD plants can now viably maximise biomethane production, benefitting from the highest Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) tariff and “top up” with additional Renewable Transport Fuel Obligation (RTFO) payments, as part of a government incentivised policy for decarbonising the transport
(Associated Press/Washington Post) The European Union has approved U.S. soybean exports to be used in the production of biofuels in an effort to boost such imports following last summer’s trans-Atlantic meeting between President Donald Trump and his EU Commission counterpart Jean-Claude
by Humeyra Pamuk (Reuters) Biofuels group Growth Energy filed a federal lawsuit against the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on Monday, challenging the agency’s renewable fuel mandate for 2019 as failing to address rising waived biofuel volumes. “EPA’s inaction on addressing lost gallons
(ResearchGate) Perennial biomass crops (PBC) are considered a crucial feedstock for sustainable biomass supply to the bioeconomy that compete less with food production compared to traditional crops. However, large‐scale development of PBC as a means to reach greenhouse gas (GHG) mitigation
(Union for the Promotion of Oil and Protein Crops (UFOP)) The Union for the Promotion of Oil and Protein Crops (UFOP) has formulated its policy expectations on the occasion of the presentation of the third edition of the Global Market Supply
(Government of Norway) Equinor has been awarded an exploitation permit for CO2-storage on the Norwegian Continental Shelf. -- This was decided by King-in-council today (January 11, 2019). The allocated area for storage of CO₂ is located near the Troll oil and
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) ... Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) CEO Geoff Cooper sent a letter to (Andrew) Wheeler this week to provide input on the agency’s upcoming RFS reset proposal. RFA is asking Wheeler to use the reset rule as an opportunity to restore
(GoodFuels) BHP, NYK, GoodFuels and BLOC collaborate to progress sustainable biofuel bunkering in Rotterdam, verified with blockchain. -- Today (February 4, 2019) global mining company BHP, Japanese shipping company NYK, leading sustainable biofuel company GoodFuels and BLOC (Blockchain Labs for Open Collaboration)
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) IEA Bioenergyhas several new tasks moving forward including Flexible Bioenergy and System Integration, climate and sustainability effects of bioenergy within the broader bioeconomy (broadening of Task 38), and the deployment of biobased value chains (broadening 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 Helena Taveras-Kennedy (Biofuels Digest) Wishes are coming true for some California bioenergy projects. Aemetis, Oberon Fuels and others will receive millions from the California Energy Commission for their bioenergy projects, from DME to advanced ethanol. ... Back in August 2018, the California
by Frank Jossi (Energy News) A recent report says low-polluting biofuels and reducing vehicle miles traveled will need to play a role. -- Low-polluting biofuels will play an important role in reducing carbon emissions from the transportation sector over the next three
(Biofuels International) The Port of Rotterdam has announced its incentive scheme, Climate-Friendly Shipping. From the 21st of January interested parties will be able to apply for funding through the scheme, as the Port of Rotterdam Authority has made €5 million available. CEO
by Emily Holden and David Smith (The Guardian) Several hopefuls are embracing the effort for a Green New Deal – but success will require overcoming legislative hurdles -- ... It (Kentuckians for the Commonwealth) is also looking to create jobs to replace those
by Nichola Groom (Reuters) ... That failure has less to do with energy or environmental policies and more with decades-old urban planning decisions that made California – and especially Los Angeles – a haven for sprawling development of single-family homes and
(International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis) A new study, designed by IIASA researchers for conservation charity WWF, has found that while there is a small but not insignificant potential for the production of sustainable biofuels in sub-Saharan Africa, this should be
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
(European Farmers European Agri-Cooperatives) Copa and Cogeca welcome EU Member States approval of Commission’s package of definitive anti-subsidy measures against Argentinian biodiesel’s imports, during Trade Defence Committee held on 30th January. Nevertheless, the approval of an import quota of 1.2 million tonnes in
by Jessie Stolark (Environmental and Energy Study Institute) EESI Policy Associate Jessie Stolark spoke on a roundtable panel about the health and environmental considerations of fuel choices, at the Iowa Renewable Fuels Summit on January 29. Below is an abbreviated version
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) The 2019 National Biodiesel Conference concluded Thursday with a panel discussion entitled “To 2022 and Beyond: Renewable Fuels in the Next Decade,” featuring renewable fuel industry leaders discussing the Renewable Fuel Standard and what is on the horizon for
by Steve Hanson (U.S. Energy Information Administration) On December 20, 2018, the Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018 (2018 Farm Bill) was signed into law, continuing federal support to a number of renewable electricity and bioenergy-related programs. Authorizations in the 2018 Farm Bill cover
by Boon-Ling Yeo and Andrew Coleman (Environmental Economics and Policy Studies) This paper examines the interaction of different policies used to control two types of agricultural pollution. Pollution control policy is efficient when both pollution types are controlled by taxes, although a
(Minnesota Bio-Fuels Association) A new report by the Minnesota's Department of Commerce and Pollution Control Agency says increased use of biofuels in the transportation sector will be key to achieving the state’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction goals. The report, “Greenhouse
(GreenAir Online) The UK government will press for a long-term goal on international aviation climate emissions to be negotiated and ideally agreed by ICAO’s 41st Assembly in 2022 that is consistent with the temperature goals of the Paris Agreement. In line
(GreenAir Online) Europe’s aviation regulator EASA has warned the continued growth of European aviation could undermine efforts to mitigate climate change and the Paris objectives if effective action is not taken to reduce the sector’s emissions over the next 10 years.
(Lloyd's Register) A study that examines three key energy pathways to help identify the actions required for the shipping industry to transition to a zero-carbon future by 2050. -- Today, Lloyd’s Register (LR) and University Maritime Advisory Services (UMAS) have released ‘Zero-Emission
by Gus Trompiz (Reuters) Public anger in France over increasing fuel prices, which gave rise to the anti-government “yellow vest” movement, has further boosted demand for crop-based ethanol fuel from motorists seeking cheaper deals, industry representatives said on Tuesday. Ethanol, which is
by Ashish Roy (Times of India) Union transport minister Nitin Gadkari recently launched a website www.indiaforethanol.net to create awareness about ethanol prodution especially among farmers. At present the website provides information in Hindi but work is going on to translate the matter into
by Jacqui Fatka (Feedstuffs) U.S. Grains Council and Growth Energy submit comments in support of 15% renewable fuel content in gasoline use by 2025. -- This week, Growth Energy and the U.S. Grains Council (USGC) jointly submitted comments to the Canadian province of
by Brad Shannon and Carolyn Bick (INVESTIGATEWEST) ... The biodiesel-to-be that is being sucked into (Chad) Peters’ truck, like much of what’s collected in Washington, will help reduce climate-wrecking carbon emissions not in the Evergreen State but across the border in Oregon.
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
(NGVA Europe/NGV Journal) In this transitional period for the European transport and energy sectors towards zero- and low-emission driving and in these crucial last steps of the negotiation for a final agreement between the European Parliament and Council on the new
(Commercial Aviation Alternative Fuels Initiative) CAAFI community is making great strides in the deployment of sustainable alternative jet fuel. The event included presentations and discussions of results from a number of key events from this year, including outcomes from International Civil
(Bioenergy Insight) UK fuel supplier Gasrec announced in a press release that British online supermarket Ocado has launched a £3 million (€3.4 million) investment into a natural gas refuelling station at its Hatfield Customer Fulfilment Centre. According to Gasrec, Ocado now leads
by John Siciliano (Washington Examiner) Ethanol producers are preparing for major action at the federal level in the months ahead, both in terms of litigation against Trump administration actions on the nation’s renewable fuel mandate and lobbying to finalize rules regarding
by Jeff Barber (Opis Biofuels News) The U.S. ethanol industry, which spent most of 2018 dealing with the fallout from EPA's decision to allow a record number of small refineries to escape their Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) compliance obligations, believes the
(Growth Energy) Federal forecasts in the U.S. Energy Information Administration’s (EIA) newly released Annual Energy Outlook 2019 (AEO2019) underscore the importance of delivering cleaner, lower cost options to the fuel pump, said Chris Bliley, vice president of regulatory affairs at Growth
(Union for the Promotion of Oil and Protein Plants (UFOP)) On the occasion of the new edition of the brochure "Good Reasons for Biofuels", the Union for the Promotion of Oil and Protein Plants (UFOP) determines that the importance of
(NGV Journal/Port of Seattle) The Port of Seattle’s latest environmental innovation is pushing to make Seattle-Tacoma (Sea-Tac) International Airport the nation’s first airport heated entirely by renewable natural gas. The Port announced a Request for Proposals, calling for renewable natural gas
by Lauren Fletcher (WorkTruck) Renewable diesel is gaining popularity, mostly with west coast fleets, as a cleaner-burning alternative to diesel and biodiesel fuels. At its most basic definition, renewable diesel fuel is a direct substitute for diesel fuel that is refined
by Doug Durante (Ethanol Producer Magazine/Clean Fuels Development Coalition) Striving for higher-octane fuels shouldn't mean saying goodbye to the RFS. --... Why is the quest for high-octane fuels to reduce petroleum consumption and increase efficiency in vehicles paired with getting rid of
by Matt Thompson (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Verbio has plans to further strengthen the already-expanding renewable natural gas market in the U.S., having purchased DuPont’s cellulosic ethanol plant. A transformation is underway in Iowa. Last year, Verbio North America Corp., the U.S. subsidiary
(Gasrec/NGV Journal) Commercial vehicle fleets running on LNG can now take advantage of the same huge CO2 savings being achieved by CNG trucks running on biomethane, following a significant move by fuel provider Gasrec. The firm has become the first in
by James Osborne (Houston Chronicle) Forecasts say that electric vehicle sales are about to take off worldwide and increase demand for the raw materials that go into batteries. -- Energy Secretary Rick Perry earlier this month said he would put more federal
by James Cogan (Ethanol Europe/EurActiv) Folklore shouldn’t stop progress: if a car works fine with today’s petrol from EU filling stations, it will work just fine with the new E10 petrol, writes James Cogan. -- Every petrol engine ever made or sold
(Economic Times) The Indian Air Force is expected to use biofuel for its transport fleet and helicopters following the clearance given by the Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification. -- In a significant move, the use of indigenously produced biofuel for military aircraft has
by Helena Taveras Kennedy (Biofuels Digest) In Germany, UFOP reports that for years now, dramatically low prices have defined the level of revenues from rapeseed and soft wheat. The drought year 2018 did not do anything to change this. So anyone who is
Rob Jackson (Global Carbon Project/Stanford University/The Hill) ... The global economy is creating half a million new jobs yearly in renewable energy and employs more than ten million people. In the U.S. we’ve created a hundred thousand new solar and wind jobs annually, 12
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