(National Biodiesel Board) NBB experts share how industry continues to “Rise” to any challenge — The biodiesel and renewable diesel industry is on the “RISE”. This week the National Biodiesel Board (NBB) hosted more than 550 biodiesel and renewable diesel producers, distributors, retailers, and other industry advocates virtually to share the
Other Conferences/Events
by Tammy Klein (Transport Energy Strategies) Thanks to all of you who attended the recent webinar with Dr. David Babson, Program Director, Advanced Research Projects Agency – Energy (ARPA-E). The title of his talk was “Changing what’s possible for a sustainable future,” which included a topic that is top of mind for
(National Biodiesel Board/Biodiesel Magazine) … Time is of the essence as OEMs and fleets across the country take a fresh look at the use of low-carbon biodiesel and renewable diesel to help reduce emissions in their new and legacy diesel vehicles and equipment and help to slow the progression of climate
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) The environmental benefits of both biodiesel and renewable diesel are in focus this week at the virtual National Biodiesel Conference and Expo. Matt Herman is the National Biodiesel Board‘s new Director of Environmental Science. Formally with the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) and the Renewable Energy Group (REG), Herman has
by Tammy Klein (Transport Energy Strategies) Following the successful Q&A roundtable discussion on the future of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) last month, I decided to do a video podcast series with several SAF producers and technology developers to get their insight into the future of SAF. First on deck is a
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Barriers abound in the bioeconomy, but this slide guide from Idaho National Lab shows how artificial intelligence and machine learning will lower the barriers to growing a bioeconomy. From biomass supply and logistics to preprocessing and conversion, AI and ML has many applications that can
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Taking trash to treasure to a new level, renewable Dimethyl Ethercan be made from animal manure, food and agriculture waste, landfill gas and wood. Oberon Fuels’ President, Rebecca Boudreaux, PhD shared this illuminating slide guide that dives into Oberon’s small-scale production process, the 1st fuel-grade
by Hannah DelSordo* (Advanced Biofuels USA) The fourth episode of “Just A Minute or So about Renewable Fuels” focuses on how biofuels have been used throughout history, and their uses as technology progresses. This video is a great tool for teachers, students, and anyone interested in renewables to get a
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Oak Ridge National Laboratory is conducting studies for BETO to identify better materials for raw biomass processing, biomass liquefaction, and bio-oil storage. From how important alloy selection is to working on materials issues with developers of new biomass processing systems, check out this slide guide
(ANTARA) The Agency for the Assessment and Application of Technology (BPPT) pressed for the government to speed up the development of biofuel as a better alternative to using fossil fuel. “We have to develop biofuel as a substitute for fossil fuel. We have already conducted several research on biofuel, especially
(Haldoe Topsoe) The world’s first podcast about renewables for the refinery industry season two. This time, Sylvain Verdier and Mikala Grubb from Topsoe look into some of the most pressing topics in renewables and the refining industry, including trends in advanced biofuels and hydrogen, pyrolysis and its challenges and opportunities,
(Center for Climate Strategies) In partnership with RTI International, the Center for Climate Strategies (CCS) completed the Guatemala national Low Emissions Development Strategies (LEDS) plan, a gold-standard public private participatory template to spur economic and social development while reducing GHG emissions beyond international commitments. The Guatemala LEDS Plan is the
by Peter Landers (Wall Street Journal) Toyota Motor Corp.’s leader criticized what he described as excessive hype over electric vehicles, saying advocates failed to consider the carbon emitted by generating electricity and the costs of an EV transition. Toyota President Akio Toyoda said Japan would run out of electricity in the
by Nick Silvis* (Advanced Biofuels USA)The world is undergoing drastic climate and ecological changes which will have dire ramifications on all facets of global activity. Critical trade relationships, such as the one between the United States and Europe, are facing increased opportunity and risk as the world’s economies shift to
by Lena Nordgren (SEKAB) The second webinar by the EU project REWOFUEL – REsidual soft WOod conversion to high characteristics drop-in bioFUELs, was held in the beginning of December. The specific topic of the webinar was to address the sustainability aspects in the value chain focusing on “Application of LCA on innovative biorefinery concepts –
by Hannah DelSordo* (Advanced Biofuels USA) The upcoming climate legislation of the Maryland General Assembly in 2021 will be focusing on general climate solutions, carbon pricing, and environmental justice. Senator Paul Pinsky discussed his sponsoring of the upcoming Climate Solutions Now Act (SB926), also known as the Greenhouse Gas Emissions
by Hannah DelSordo* (Advanced Biofuels USA) The December 15th webinar discussed how natural gas utilities are developing the renewable natural gas (RNG) market in a decarbonizing world. This event featured speaker Philip Sheehy, the technical director of transportation and energy at ICF, Josh Linton strategic planning analyst at ONE Gas,
(Environmental and Energy Study Institute) Briefing Series: By Air, Land, and Sea: Navigating the Climate Future — The Environmental and Energy Study Institute (EESI) held a briefing series on climate mitigation and adaptation in the transportation sector. The series covered ports, aviation, and public transit. As commercial aviation recovers from the COVID-19 contraction, it will
by Nathália Fernandes Pimentel* (Advanced Biofuels USA) From 30th November to 3rd December this year, the BBEST / Biofuture Summit II was sponsored by Apex, the Brazilian Export and Investment Promotion Agency. The event took place on virtual platform Whova and was attended by several authorities, experts and researchers. Aiming
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) This just released report from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Bioenergy Technologies Office sums up the input that 175 participants from biofuels and bioenergy sectors gave at a virtual workshop to come up with best practices for utilizing mathematical modeling tools across multiple scales to
(UABIO) … In 2018, the use of renewable energy in the transport sector should have been 8.2%, we had ONLY about 1.7%. Besides the contribution of biofuels was 38.4 thousand toe, which is about 45% of all RES. Sustainability criteria for liquid biofuels and biogas are not implemented in domestic legislation,
(UABIO) On November 18, an online seminar “Review of Climate Action and the Transition to Sustainable Energy in Ukraine” was held as part of the project “Civil Society for Sustainable Energy – Local to National in Eastern Europe (SELNEE)”. Generally, more than 1,700 stakeholders, including government, civil society, business and academia,
(Biofuture) Bioenergy sector hailed as a ‘job creating machine’ at launch of BBEST 2020-21/BIOFUTURE SUMMIT II Virtual Conference; Unique conference brings together world-leading policies, innovation, science and market analysis across the bioeconomy — The Biofuture Platform, a multi-stakeholder initiative facilitated by the International Energy Agency (IEA) and designed to take action on
by Gareth Chetwynd (Upstream Online) Mines & Energy Ministry expected to sign off next week on raft of new regulations to free up sector — Brazil’s Mines & Energy Ministry is expected to approve a batch of new regulations next week intended to facilitate the opening of the country’s downstream sector and
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) There are concrete benefits of using BioLNG to decarbonize hard to abate transport sectors like heavy-duty transport and shipping, according to the latest European Biogas Association, Gas Infrastructure Europe, the Natural & Bio Gas Vehicle Association, and SEA-LNG joint paper. The EU production of BioLNG
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) To go along with our “green” holiday theme today, check out this slide guide on how iWi’s Omega-3 made from algae can go a long way in making us healthier in a much greener way. iWi skips the fish and krill and goes directly to
(Renewable Energy Group) This week REG is celebrating 25 years of operations! We will be releasing videos all week recounting the last quarter century of hard work and dedication that got us here. Here is how it all started: Hear from Myron Danzer, current REG General Manager, and Matt Schultes,
(Praj) “The use of biofuels needs to be increased to reduce the strain caused by fossil fuel on our country’s economy, and the growing pollution menace arising from it,” said Mr. Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways and the Minister of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises. He
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In September, Novozymes announced they would be a more customer-centric organization. But what does that mean? And how did COVID-19 affect their business strategy for the remaining 2020 months? Find out in this illuminating slide guide that dives deep into their financials, their strategic plans,
by Isabela Rodrigues* (Advanced Biofuels USA) In October, The 20th Datagro Conference on Sugar and Ethanol 2020 took place over a virtual platform with more than 4000 attendees. This year, Brazilian government authorities including Vice President Hamilton Mourão, Secretary of Amazon and Environmental Services at the Ministry of the Environment Joaquim
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Greenlane Renewables is “changing the nature of natural gas” via renewable natural gas to help decarbonize transportation and the natural gas grid. By producing low-carbon RNG from organic waste like landfills, wastewater treatment plants, dairy and hog farms and food waste, that can go directly
(Solutions from the Land) A 20-minute video presentation in which Solutions from the Land farmer leaders offer a vision of solutions that farming operations can deliver to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) promoted by UN member nations is now available on YouTube. This presentation, Solutions from the Land: Enabling Farmers
(Bioenergy Insight/Biogas Channel) There are several stages between the production of biogas in an anaerobic digester and the injection of biomethane into the national gas grid. Learn more about this process by watching this video from our friends at Biogas Channel who visited a membrane upgrading plant in Northern Italy,
(Bioenergy Insight/Biogas Channel) Pomace is a by-product that can be used for the production of biogas, particularly in countries like Italy. WATCH VIDEO
(Maryland Campaign for Environmental Human Rights) The Maryland Campaign for Environmental Human Rights (MDEHR) hosted a webinar by the University of Maryland Environmental Law Clinic about recent state activity on environmental justice. The webinar focused on two areas: (1) recent state environmental justice laws and (2) how the courts have
by Sharon Ji* (Advanced Biofuels USA) This online conference focused on the updated models set-up on carbon pricing calculations. As for the many factors involved, the main issues considered were the production cost, marketing and sales cost, carbon tax cost, new technology impacts and environmental effects. To set the updated
by Marcelo Teixeira (Reuters) The United States and Brazil, the two leading ethanol producers, see potential for a large increase in global use of the biofuel as an outright way to cut carbon emissions while the world transitions to all-electric cars, according to industry representatives this week. “There is a lot of
by Hannah DelSordo* (Advanced Biofuels USA) The Energy Leaders Webinar Series hosted a webinar entitled “Energy Justice” on October 28, 2020. The webinar featured guest speakers Dr. Michael K. Dorsey, the Co-founder & Treasurer of the Sunrise Movement and Co-founder and Managing Partner of IberSun Solar; Tony G. Reames, an
by Marcelo Teixeira (Reuters) Ethanol production and consumption in India, the world’s third largest fuel market, is expected to increase quickly in coming years as the government seems keen to push the industry to higher blend rates, an industry official said on Monday. Abinash Verma, general director for Indian Sugar Millers Association
(Mid-Atlantic Renewable Energy Association) … Among the Carbon-negative (and climate positive) solutions, those based on photosynthesis are by far the cheapest and most scalable options now, and likely for many decades to come. Properly implemented, these solutions can also provide many other benefits, including clean water, bio-diverse landscapes, healthy soil
(GreenAir Online) Zero emissions flight pioneer ZeroAvia has signed a Heads of Terms collaboration with Protium to develop and expand green hydrogen infrastructure for decarbonising aviation in the UK. Project developer Protium has long-term ambitions to eventually own and operate green hydrogen infrastructure across UK airports. The UK and US based ZeroAvia recently operated a
(GreenAir Online) The main focus of this year’s Global Sustainable Aviation Forum, organised by the cross-industry Air Transport Action Group (ATAG), was the publication of Waypoint 2050, an analysis of pathways towards the sector’s long-term climate goal. Set over a decade ago, the target calls for a 50% net reduction in CO2
(Biofuels International) Velocys appeared at the world’s first Net Zero Festival and took part in a panel discussion. The virtual discussion centred on the topic of Prepping Net Zero Flight for Take Off. Henrik Wareborn, Velocys CEO, told the virtual audience that “what we can do here and now, today, is
(Think100Climate.com) This first look into Ain’t Your Mama’s Heat Wave was aired on Earth Day Live’s global stream on April 22nd, the 50th Anniversary of Earth Day. And now we are sharing it with you! Ain’t Your Mama’s Heat Wave is the first feature length production from Hip Hop Caucus’ Think
by Erin Murphy (The Courier) Campaigning in Iowa on Wednesday night, President Donald Trump touted his administration’s work to boost the ethanol industry and help farmers in Iowa. Trump’s administration this year issued a rule that allows gas stations to sell a higher ethanol blend year-round. “They were killing ethanol,”
(Washington Post/Associated Press) Pope Francis on Saturday issued an urgent call to action to defend the planet and help the poor in his second TED talk. The pontiff, known for his affinity for social media and technology, said in a videotaped message to a TED conference on climate change that
(Renewable Energy Group) Do you know how clean burning biodiesel is made? Take a tour through an REG biorefinery to see the process happen from beginning to end, and learn about the continuously improving, sustainable biodiesel production process. Learn more about biodiesel and all of its benefits at regi.com. READ
by Joseph Glandorf (Environmental and Energy Study Institute) In a project called the “Environmental Justice Now Tour,” Democrats on the House Natural Resources Committee are holding a series of discussions with community leaders and activists on environmental justice. The tour is centered around the Environmental Justice for All Act (H.R.5986/S.4401). The bill, introduced
(Going Green Show) On the Going Green podcast, a big topic we often discuss is the future of transportation. There is a huge push for electric vehicles and the infrastructure that supports it, yet at the same time fuel is a resource we rely on every single day. We are excited to
by Mike Newman (Parhelion Underwriting Inc./Biofuels Digest) Connecting people from renewable fuels companies with projects they want to finance to the people who can finance them was a key goal for Parhelion Underwriting’s recent virtual roundtable. The finance panel included Justin Goldstein from Goldman Sachs, John May from Hamilton Clark and
(Algae Biomass Organization) The virtual Algae Biomass Summit concluded last week, and the most significant takeaway was that the new online format provided a more dynamic collaboration than ever before, and with larger group of participants spread across the globe. Speakers, poster presenters, exhibitors, sponsors, and hundreds of attendees gathered continue the momentum
(Maritime Executive) The global shipping industry is continuing to explore the news sources of fuel that will help it to reduce its environmental impact and meet the industry goals of reducing emissions. Speaking at the Maritime Transport Efficiency Conference in Geneva, Switzerland, MSC discussed its approach and outlook for the future.
(UABIO) … Bioethanol raises the total octane number, raises the efficiency of the engine, increases the oxygen content in the fuel up to 3.7% and reduces emissions of PETROL, dioxins, carcinogens. Reducing CO is an indicator of harmful emissions and human health. We offer to get acquainted with the presentation of
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Today’s top story is all about hydrogen and fuel cell technology, and how Ballard is working in this fast-growing market with the company’s focus on electrification of Heavy- and Medium-Duty Motive applications. Tony Guglielmin, Vice President and CFO of Ballard shared a 184 page slide guide
by Helena Tavares Kennedy (Biofuels Digest) Ballard just hosted a 5-hour analyst day with no breaks and there was a lot to unpack in terms of how the company intends to apply fuel cells in the bus, truck, trains and even marine sectors. But the key message was the huge
by Cecilia Keating (Business Green) Aviation sector will not be able to reach net zero if worldwide capacity of sustainable fuels is split between different transport sectors, John Holland Kaye warned at BusinessGreen’s Net Zero Festival Heathrow Airport CEO John Holland-Kaye has urged policymakers to give the aviation sector priority access
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Just look at those melons and what a difference algae can make! And that’s just part of the story that shows us that, yes, CO2 emissions CAN be used to grow algae and that algae CAN be used to grow crops. Get the latest on Accelergy’s carbon
(Biofuels International) Jet Aviation has confirmed its ongoing commitment to sustainable aviation in the industry’s first virtual sustainability summit hosted by the Business Aviation Coalition for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF Coalition). The company was the first provider of SAF in Switzerland through its pilot programme and it continues to invest
by Erin Voegele (Biodiesel Magazine) BBI International’s Biodiesel Production Technology Summit kicked off on Sept. 16 with the star-studded story of Pacific Biodiesel Technologies unique history and a general session panel focused on emerging biodiesel technologies. Bob King, founder and president of Pacific Biodiesel, opened the event with a keynote address

(ePURE/EurActiv) According to the European Green Deal, transport accounts for a quarter of the European Union’s greenhouse gas emissions, a substantial contributor to climate change. A 90% decrease in transport emissions, and an increase in renewable energy sources, will be necessary in order to reach climate neutrality by 2050. Steps have been
(U.S. Grains Council) To bring ethanol buyers from around the globe together with U.S. suppliers in a time when business continues but crossing borders poses many challenges, the U.S. Grains Council (USGC), Growth Energy and the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) co-sponsored the Virtual Ethanol Buyers Conference (VEBC) on Sept. 23. The
(Advanced Biofuels USA) The third in the “Just A Minute about Renewable Fuels” short educational video series in four minutes explains how to decrease the carbon footprint of existing vehicles while waiting for electric vehicles to be affordable, available, powered by renewables using fair trade batteries. It describes flex fuel
by Lisa Gibson (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Brian Jennings, CEO of the American Coalition for Ethanol, told audience members at the 2020 Fuel Ethanol Workshop & Expo during the general session panel Sept. 16 that the gap waiver denial, two days before, is a win, but there’s more work to do. Take
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) The U.S. Department of Energy leads the Feedstock-Conversion Interface Consortium, which is a collaborative effort among 9 labs to develop first-principles based knowledge and tools to understand and mitigate the effects of biomass feedstock and process variability on biorefineries. From understanding and predicting microbial performance to
(BioFuture Platform) In a high-level launch event, government representatives, the International Energy Agency and top industry leaders called for international collaboration and engagement with private sector to achieve global climate and energy transition goals — The Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM) high-level global forum has officially launched the new Biofuture Platform Initiative.
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) The consortium concept is not new, so what is different now? Energy for Airlines tackles the answer and shares what the SAF Now Consortium is and what it means for the aviation and biofuels industries. Michael Baer, President of Energy for Airlines, shared this illuminating presentation
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In Wisconsin, Lallemand Biofuels & Distilled Spirits has announced a next generation advanced yeast and enzyme platform called Convergence, which combines a new yeast that generates virtually all the glucoamylase (GA) required for fermentation combined with a small amount of complementary exogenous enzyme. The bottom line impact
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Chemicals, catalysis, additives – At ABLC Digital this July, Clariant shared how they are working on advancing biofuels globally and details on their sunliquid technology to decarbonize transportation. A fully integrated and carbon negative process, sunliquid is a platform for sustainable biobased products too like cosmetics,
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) 2019 was a banner year for RSB that saw growing recognition of RSB’s leadership in the circular and bio-based economy, as well as engagement of new sectors and overall expansion of their global footprint. Check out their just released annual report that dives into their exciting
by Philip Brasher (Agri-Pulse) House Agriculture Committee Chairman Collin Peterson supports Joe Biden’s plan to eliminate President Donald Trump’s tariffs on China but said he isn’t sure what the alternative is for countering Chinese trade practices. “First thing I want to see is to stop these tariffs. I think it’s been
by O. Kay Henderson (Radio Iowa) Theresa Greenfield, the Iowa Democratic Party’s nominee for the U.S. Senate, says federal policy should expand the use of biofuels in boats and planes. “Ask the Department of Defense to use biofuels as part of a reduction of their carbon footprint, too,” Greenfield says. “…There’s
by Pat Rynard (Iowa Starting Line) Sen. Joni Ernst’s undying loyalty to Pres. Donald Trump was rewarded tonight with a high-profile speech at the Republican National Convention. She repaid Trump for the political boost to her reelection campaign by betraying the Iowans she’s serving, vouching for the President on the exact
(Clarin (Google translation)) Jens Mesa Dishington, executive president of Fedepalma and Luis María Zubizarreta, president of Acsoja and Carbio, called for the promotion of biodiesel production in the region. — In a forum organized by the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), Jens Mesa Dishington, executive president of FEDEPALMA
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) We reported breaking news from Yield10 Bioscience’s latest development with their genome-edited canola plant lines here and today we have their latest investor presentation highlighting how this agricultural bioscience company is developing innovations to improve crop yields for a variety of feedstocks. From this year’s accomplishments
(Renewable Fuels Association) Within the course of a week, the Renewable Fuels Association provided ethanol safety training to nearly 600 participants across the United States and in nine other countries around the world. “We’re thrilled to see this participation in our safety programs,” said RFA Director of Safety and Technical Programs
by Quinn Wilson (Bakersfield.com) The state’s largest biodiesel producer gave a glimpse into the continued expansion of its local plant Wednesday, as it continues attempting to increase its production by 50 percent. Crimson Renewable Energy, located south of Highway 223 in southwestern Kern County, is in the process of creating
by Helton Chaves* (Federal University of Goiás/Advanced Biofuels USA) The Brazilian Union of Biodiesel and Biojetfuel (Ubrabio) and the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation held between August 10th and 14th the first Biodiesel Week, an event promoting the International Biodiesel Day, celebrated on August 10th, the date that Rudolf Diesel invented
by Chris Clayton (DTN Progressive Farmer) Democratic leaders put a heavy emphasis on rural broadband and health care while criticizing the Trump administration and President Trump directly on trade, biofuels, climate change and the pandemic response. A western Pennsylvania soybean and hay farmer who voted for Donald Trump in 2016 spoke
by Kelsey Tamborrino (Politico’s Morning Energy) Night 3 of the Democratic National Convention featured a lengthy 11-minute take on Joe Biden’s climate and clean energy strategy that hammered home some of his big themes rather than the wonky details (which you can read here). The segment was heavy on optimism and
(Commercial Aviation Alternative Fuels Initiative) The State of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) by Steve Csonka (CAAFI) Slide deck available here. Webinar recording available here.
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) “A solid quarter despite market turbulence due to COVID-19”,is how Neste is describing their second quarter of 2020 in this just released presentation. Check out this illuminating slide guide for the scoop on the company’s Q2 financials, how their renewable products segment helped maintain a
Natural carbon removal by farm and forest lands is emerging as a critical component of legislative efforts to address climate change. Action is needed to develop long-term revenue streams for soil and forest carbon practices that create economic opportunities in rural America, store and reduce carbon emissions, and achieve other
(U.S. Department of Energy) The Plastics for a Circular Economy Workshop, coordinated by the Bioenergy Technologies Office, the Advanced Manufacturing Office, and Mars, Inc., brought together stakeholders from industry, academia, and National Laboratories to discuss opportunities and challenges facing the development of new technologies to address plastic waste. This workshop
by By Mark Dorenkamp (Brownfield Ag News) The U.S. Grains Council is taking a harder look at promoting ethanol for industrial use. USGC CEO Ryan LeGrand says value-added products like hand sanitizer have helped buoy ethanol exports as fuel demand falls off. “People started out by saying it’s just a drop in the
(Urban Air Initiative) This is a conversation related to ethanol and octane. The Urban Air Initiative presents its perspective on a 95 RON Octane Standard and the value it can bring to the corn ethanol industry. Urban Air President Dave VanderGriend and General Motors Biofuel Expert Coleman Jones presented and
(GreenAir Online) A hydrogen-powered short-range commercial passenger aircraft could be flying within Europe by 2035, finds a major new study commissioned by the EU’s public-private Clean Sky 2 and Fuel Cells & Hydrogen Joint Undertakings. The published report concludes hydrogen propulsion has the potential to significantly reduce aviation’s climate impact. However,
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) At ABLC Digital, Michael Bakas, Executive Vice President of Distributed Energy Systems at Ameresco shared these illuminating slide guides about their advanced renewable energy and tech portfolio including their design, build, operation and maintenance of the largest wastewater treatment biogas-to-renewable natural gas facility of its kind
(PA Consulting) PA Consulting announces key findings from sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) executive summary report at Farnborough International Airshow Connect (FIA Connect); Report finds that now is the time for SAF to be brought to market in the UK as part of the wider plan to reduce aviation industry’s carbon
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Praj Industries recently added renewable chemicals and materials to their portfolio of products going beyond biofuels and their Executive Chairman Dr. Pramod Chaudhari shared this illuminating presentation at ABLC Digital on the India story, the shift towards advanced biofuels and renewable chem in India, Praj’s
(Advanced Biofuels USA) The second episode of “Just A Minute or So about Renewable Fuels” focuses on making chemicals from waste CO2 in a circular economy. Students, teachers, or anyone interested in renewables can see in a 3-minute slide presentation narrated by Elizabeth Nesbitt of the U.S. International Trade Commission
5 July 2020 Opening Highlights The first ever entirely virtual edition of the European Biomass Conference and Exhibition started today with the opening session streamed online. This year’s theme of the EUBCE is the role of the bioeconomy in the post-pandemic economic recovery and this is the topic that was addressed by
Feature Video of the Month: Have You Ever Wondered How a Biogas to Biomethane Upgrading Plant Works?
(Bioenergy Insight/Biogas Channel) There are several stages between the production of biogas in an anaerobic digester and the injection of biomethane into the national gas grid. Learn more about this process by watching this video from our friends at Biogas Channel who visited a membrane upgrading plant in Northern Italy,
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) The transportation and utility/pipeline industries are ripe for decarbonizing and Greenlane Renewables are using their conversion of low-grade biogas to high-value renewable natural gas to decarbonize the natural gas grid and commercial transportation. RNG happens to be resilient during COVID-19 too according to Greenlane, and this
(Greenlane Renewables) Greenlane Renewables Inc. (Greenlane) (TSXV: GRN / FSE: 52G) today announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Greenlane Biogas North America Ltd., has signed a $2.4 million (US$1.8 million) contract with Grupo Cocal (Cocal), a Brazilian sugar mill operator that refines sugar and produces ethanol biofuel from sugarcane. Greenlane will supply
Valero & Diamond Green Diesel Joint Venture: The Digest’s 2020 Multi-Slide Guide to Renewable Diesel
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Diamond Green Diesel is North America’s largest renewable diesel plant, Valero is the largest renewable fuels producer in North America, and Darling Ingredients is the world’s largest independent processor of animal by-products, according to this illuminating slide guide that dives into renewable diesel’s margins, mandates, blending,
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest)The Biomass Research and Development Board published a report that looks at how to address the constraints surrounding availability of biomass feedstocks for biofuels. Four questions guide the analysis: What feedstocks and at what price? What is the regional distribution of feedstock production? What are the
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) This slide guide offers a vision and roadmap — a ‘blueprint’ — for the Pacific Northwest to transform its increasingly outdated solid waste management system by 2040, at a time when waste leaders are grappling with the most profound set of challenges they have faced in
(The Edge Markets/Bernama) With demand for crude oil dropping sharply, leading to a steep fall in crude oil prices, the viability of the biodiesel business has also weakened significantly, putting both Malaysia and Indonesia’s biodiesel mandates under pressure. However, there is a silver lining in the dark clouds, as the world has seen
(S&P Global Platts) Fossil fuels would shrink to roughly half of total primary energy supply in 2050, from about 77% in 2020, if the world meets the minimum Paris Agreement target of 2C warming, according to the latest projections by S&P Global Platts Analytics. The demand shock caused by the coronavirus pandemic
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) From planning, people and performance, Renewable Energy Group is on top of things with the coronavirus. Since biodiesel and renewable diesel production has been considered essential business, REG was still working, maintaining full operations of all refineries, and while there was lower diesel demand due to
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ATCO built and is currently operating a 0.25 MW (65 kg per day) hydrogen production facility in Jandakot, Western Australia. Hydrogen produced at the Clean Energy Innovation Hub is used for blending, direct fuel testing and to power a fuel cell for residential energy back
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Everyone wants to dominate the world, right? But Neste wants to do it in a nice way by becoming the global leader in renewable and circular solutions. There are 3 ways they are working on this lately – 1) expanding global reach with new offices in
by Mike Newman (Parhelion Underwriting Inc./Biofuels Digest) … The focus was on renewable fuels in the Renewable Fuel Standard (RINs) and California’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS credits). Stakeholders came from all corners of the market, from the refining industry, power utilities and renewable energy sectors, as well as the
by Josh Siegel & Abby Smith (Washington Examiner) ELECTRIC CARS’ EQUITY PROBLEM: Top energy officials from New York and Massachusetts are raising the fear that requiring increasing use of electric cars could impose financial hardships on poor people. That is especially if utilities bear the cost of building out charging infrastructure and
(Energy Vision) New Funding Offered for Clean Truck Technology and Fuels to Reduce Diesel Exhaust’s Impacts on Bronx Air Quality and Respiratory Illness — At a webinar this week sponsored by the non-profit Energy Vision, the NYC Department of Transportation and Empire Clean Cities, New York State Senator Alessandra Biaggi,
by Ana Flávia Silva Paiva and Isabela Almeida Rodrigues* (Federal University of Goias/ Brazilian National Institute of Science and Technology for Studies on the United States/ Advanced Biofuels USA) The Webinar, “Integration between biofuels: strategies to overcome the crisis,” held on June 4, 2020, was an online event broadcast on
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Toyota’s been working on a global environmental challenge – a new vehicle with zero CO2 emissions and plants with zero CO2 emissions. But how can they achieve what seems to be impossible? That’s where hydrogen and fuel cells come into play. Toyota’s been working on fuel cells
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Alot has changed since February, but what exactly in terms of the energy sector and financial impacts from COVID-19? Dive into this detailed assessment by The Brattle Group on COVID-19’s path and macroeconomic projections and outlook for the future, oil and natural gas demand and
by Erin Voegele (Biomass Magazine) Valero Energy Corp. released first quarter 2020 financial results on April 29. While the company’s operations are being impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, members of the executive team confirmed that demand for transportation fuels is beginning to rebound. … Gorder (Joe Gorder, chairman and CEO
(Advanced Biofuels USA) The first episode of “Just A Minute or So about Renewable Fuels” focuses on what might be used to make renewable fuels. Students, teachers, or anyone interested in renewable fuels can see in a 3-minute slide presentation narrated by Advanced Biofuels USA’s Joanne Ivancic with pictures of
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) DNA is changing the world. That’s what Twist Biosciences is focusing on with synthetic DNA being the future of chemicals, food, therapeutics, diagnostics and even data storage. From next-gen sequencing to synthetic biology, Twist Biosciences envisions a huge expanding market of about $2.3 billion, and their
(Minnesota Department of Agriculture) On April 6, the Minnesota Department of Agriculture hosted a meeting of the Minnesota Governor’s Council on Biofuels which included presentations from Jeremy Martin, Clean Transportation Program, Union of Concerned Scientists, speaking on Relative environmental effects of ethanol, gasoline, and electricity and from Ron Alverson, American
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Clariant takes us on a journey on how carbon emissions can be reduced by advanced biofuels, more specifically, how lignocellulosic ethanol made from agriculture residues like straw, non-food materials, and waste can make an immediate impact, how their sunliquid technology, enzymes, microorganisms and fermentation organisms leads
(EcoEngineers) EcoEngineers is filming its conversations and making them accessible to the public in a video series called Eco Insights. We’re inviting you to have a front-row seat to some of the daily conversations our experts have with each other. We want to share some of our insights with you! Join us
Renewable Hydrogen and Natural Gas 101: The Digest’s 2020 Multi-Slide Guide to Xebec’s Renewable Gas
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Xebec is reducing carbon emissions in the gas grid by accelerating the adoption of renewable gases, focusing on both renewable natural gas and renewable hydrogen. With a $100 million in order backlog that validates the technology and over $60 million invested into proprietary technology, and
by Donnell Rehagen (National Biodiesel Board/Biodiesel Magazine) National Biodiesel Board CEO Donnell Rehagen discusses policy achievements of 2019, highlights from the 2020 National Biodiesel Conference & Expo, and challenges that lie ahead — …Biodiesel, renewable diesel, and renewable jet fuel will be recognized as mainstream low-carbon fuel options with superior
(National Council for Science and the Environment) The NCSE 2020 Annual Conference: Science in Environmental Decision-Making, held January 6–9, 2020, in Washington, D.C., provided a forum for collaboration and engagement, harnessing collective vision and energy toward what is possible when scientific research is used to develop solutions to “wicked” problems. Twenty years ago,
(FNR/AdvanceFuel) More than 600 participants from 25 countries attended the conference and took part in the presentations and discussions regarding possible options for a more sustainable future mobility serving under the goals of the Paris Agreement and the obligations of the REDII. The conference provided the opportunity to access the most
(South Dakota Farmer’s Union) In addition to feeding and fueling the world, farmers across the Corn Belt are helping sequester carbon by raising corn for ethanol, livestock feed and Fourth of July barbecues. “Corn is one of only a handful of grasses (C4) which are superior at extracting carbon dioxide from the
y Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) The Renewable Fuels Association released its 2020 Ethanol Industry Outlook, an annual publication that provides policymakers, regulators, consumers, the media, and renewable fuel advocates with key statistics, trends, insight, and analysis on the latest developments in the U.S. renewable fuels industry, as well as commentary
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Check out Part 3 of the National Biodiesel Board’s slide guide that delves into ASTM fuel specifications for biodiesel and fuel quality, biodiesel standards like BQ-9000, legislative updates impacting biodiesel demand and state policies, latest on OEM and fleet support for biodiesel. READ MORE Where’s
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Check out Part 2 of the National Biodiesel Board’s slide guide that focuses on biodiesel’s on-road heavy-duty emission benefits, why they consider biodiesel as “liquid solar energy”, how 3 billion gallons of biodiesel used in the U.S. would reduce carbon emissions by more than 25
by Pedro Malpartida* (Advanced Biofuels USA) Leaders in Energy hosted their sixth annual Clean Energy and Sustainability Extravaganza in the A. James Clarke Hall at the University of Maryland (UMD) along with the Association of Energy Engineers-National Capital Chapter (AEE NCC). At this event, companies, association members, and students showcased
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) While things are topsy turvy around the world right now, Part 1 to this visual National Biodiesel Board slide guide takes us on an industry overview, the diesel vehicle market forecast, the U.S. biodiesel and renewable diesel market (and yes, they are different!), a look
( Subcommittee on Environment and Climate Change of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce) The Subcommittee heard testimony about recycling and waste management in the United States, including its impacts on climate and the environment. Memorandum from Chairman Pallone to the Subcommittee on Environment and Climate Change Witnesses Jenna Jambeck,
(U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation Subcommittee on Science, Oceans, Fisheries, and Weather) The hearing examined the bioeconomy, the federal government’s role in the bioeconomy, and the potential risks from such research. Witnesses will also discuss the necessary policies and practices for the advancement of biotechnology. Witnesses: Dr.
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Methanol is versatile – it can be used as turbine fuel, cooking fuel, and as a fuel for solid oxide fuel cells. But G.K.Surya Prakash from University of Southern California shares in this illuminating presentation other ways methanol is handy dandy, like as a liquid hydrogen
(The International News) The Embassy of Brazil in Islamabad organised a seminar ‘Sustainable Mobility: Ethanol Talks – Pakistan’, to promote ethanol as a modern and sustainable option for mobility, capable of generating immediate positive impacts on energy security, health, reduction of local air pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions, says a press
(Diesel Technology Forum) Approximately six million diesel-powered work trucks today are on the job working for small businesses and governments alike. These trucks that deliver the everyday services Americans demand, are doing so with fewer emissions and a greater eye on sustainability, which is why diesel technology will continue to
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) In recent years, we have seen several countries beginning to develop clean fuel standards that can offer both opportunities and challenges for U.S. ethanol producers. A panel at the National Ethanol Conference focused on “The Emergence of International Clean Fuel Standards: Innovation Drivers or Industry Protectionism?” with insights on
(Wilson Center) In China and the United States–the top two emitters of greenhouse gasses–most climate policies and civil society campaigns have focused on reducing fossil fuels.. At this China Environment Forum (CEF) meeting, speakers will instead shine a light on the need for rural climate action that helps farming communities become
by Bidisha Bhattacharyya, Ryan Richards, and Rita Cliffton (Center for American Progress) Rural communities face many challenges, and climate change is only making matters worse. Flooding and drought are hitting rural communities hard, causing massive financial losses for farmers, who are also facing low commodity prices and bearing the brunt
by Shingirai Huni (The Herald) Zimbabwe is facing fuel shortages, with long queues now the order of the day at fuel stations. Many motorists now leave their cars at home and use public transport to save money on fuel as prices keep rising. Yet, adopting bio-fuels can help ease the fuel shortages Zimbabwe
(U.S. Grains Council/Farm Progress) U.S. Grains Council attends India’s Auto Expo, works with India to dispel myths about ethanol use. — Amid India’s Auto Expo, the U.S. Grains Council and U.S. industry partners invited attendees to learn about the economic, environmental and health benefits of increased ethanol use. The show is
by Steve Klein (Fleet Equipment/Renewable Energy Group ) I recently attended the National Biodiesel Conference & Expo in Tampa and came away with a lot of information and ideas about where the transportation industry is heading. One major point the speakers reiterated was that, despite all the talk of electrification,
by Todd Neeley (DTN Progressive Farmer) When ClearFlame Engines CEO B.J. Johnson told ethanol industry representatives about the potential ethanol market for the company’s all-ethanol diesel engine, those at the recent National Ethanol Conference in Houston could have kissed him. While concerns continue about the future of the Renewable Fuel Standard
by Malcolm Harris (Vox Media Intelligencer/New York Magazine) … I asked Fries (Steven Fries, Shell’s chief economist) if Shell is serious about transition, then couldn’t it voluntarily speed it up by leaving some of its wells fallow, constraining oil output and thereby driving the price relative to renewables higher, faster?
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Today’s top story, “Mind the Gap,” refers to a rather bleak and disturbing assessment offered by IEA Bioenergy on the prospects for cost-competitive advanced biofuels. The report looked at 89 different organizations and their technologies, and IEA Bioenergy’s Adam Brown told the Forum, “there is
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) If you have not followed the Alternative and Renewable Fuels Forum, bookmark this, and today I’ll give you some of the flavor of this group with 110 members — project owners and developers, policy experts, technologists, automotive manufacturers, oil companies, airlines. I think of them as
by Anna Simet (Biomass Magazine) … The event drew a diverse mix of technology developers, academia, investors, service and equipment providers, bioenergy plant personnel and a range of other stakeholders who met to gather information, network and collaborate. Following a day-long preconference workshop focused on biomass preparation, storage and handling, the
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Did you know that the demand potential of the hydrogen market by 2050 is >9X? National Renewable Energy Laboratory recently presented the latest on the technical potential, demand, and economic potential of H2@Scale within the United States. Check out 5 national scenarios for hydrogen’s economic
by Carrie Muehling (Energy.AgWired.com) The 2020 National Ethanol Conference included a panel discussion on new uses for ethanol, moderated by Erik Huschitt, CEO and General Manager of Badger State Ethanol, LLC. Panelists included Keegan O’Donnell, Gas Power Systems, New Product Engineering, General Electric; Prabhakar Nair, VP Business Development, LanzaTech; and BJ Johnson, CEO, ClearFlame
(KLKN TV) Fuel retailers met … to discuss ethanol and how using it helps save the planet and some change in your pocket. “We’re excited the people are here and want to learn about how they can help us and help the state and help the environment,” said Scott McPheeters,
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The USDA unveiled its Agriculture Innovation Agenda on Feb. 20. The initiative, in part, aims to support renewable fuels, including ethanol, biodiesel and biomass. This includes a goal to achieve market-driven blend rates of E30 by 2050. Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue announced the launch of
by Kelsey Tamborrino (Politico’s Morning Energy) The Agriculture Department is expected to announce today that it aims to cut farming’s environmental footprint in half by 2050 while increasing farm productivity by 40 percent, three sources briefed on the plan told POLITICO’s Catherine Boudreau. The initiative is not expected to specifically
Growth Energy Testifies on Low-Carbon Ethanol, EPA Test Fuels
(Growth Energy/Ethanol Producer Magazine) Today (July 13, 2020), Growth Energy Senior Vice President of Regulatory Affairs Chris Bliley offered testimony during a virtual public hearing on the U.S. EPA’s test protocols for U.S. fuels. The agency is currently updating Tier 3 Motor Vehicle Emission and Fuel Standards to reflect the modern transition to