by Ryan Block (Leaders in Energy) At the fourth annual Energy and Sustainability Extravaganza at the University of Maryland, College Park (UMD) on February 23, 2018, attendees learned about the types of services and products offered by private sector companies to promote sustainability. Moderated Dr. Lynn Abramson, Executive Director of the Clean Energy
Maryland
by Joanne Ivancic* (Advanced Biofuels USA) Advanced Biofuels USA joined 14 other exhibitors at the University of Maryland College Park recently to bring education about biofuels to students, faculty and businesses interested in sustainability and engaged in renewable energy and efficiency. As part of the fourth annual “Council on Women
by Lorraine Mirabella (Baltimore Sun) An Italian company that operates waste-to-energy plants around the world plans to build its first U.S. facility in Jessup near dozens of food distribution businesses that could supply its fuel. BTS Biogas established its North American headquarters in Columbia last fall and now hopes to
(University of Maryland IBBR/Ethanol Producer Magazine) The Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research has been awarded a $1.1 million U.S. Department of Energy grant to elucidate the mechanism of rust pathogenesis in poplar in an effort to engineer durable resistance for this important, second generation biofuel crop. … The research is supported by
by Natasha Geiling (ThinkProgress) Currently only one state in the country has an economy-wide cap on carbon. These states want to change that — Lawmakers from nine states announced on Wednesday that they would be forming a coalition to help pass carbon pricing at the local level, citing the importance of state-level policies

4th Annual Clean Energy and Sustainability Extravaganza – February 23, 2018 — College Park, Maryland
Energy and Sustainability Extravaganza at University of Maryland, Friday, February 23rd, 11 am – 8 pm Join us for our Fourth annual “Council on Women in Energy and Environmental Leadership and Clean Energy and Sustainability Extravaganza,” February 23rd at the University of Maryland – College Park. Our partner will be
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Fiberight is a privately held company founded in 2007 with current operations in Virginia, Maryland and Iowa. The company focuses on transforming post-recycled municipal solid wastes and other organic feedstocks into next generation renewable biofuels, with cellulosic ethanol and renewable compressed natural gas as core products.
by Alex Acquisto (Bangor Daily News) The company behind a state-of-the-art solid waste disposal facility in Hampden designed to convert trash into biofuel has secured enough funding to begin operations in May. Craig Stuart-Paul, CEO of Maryland-based Fiberight LLC, announced this week that his company has secured $70 million for a municipal solid waste
by Gerald B. Silverman (Bloomberg) Motor fuel could be the next target for controlling greenhouse gas emissions in the Northeast, as seven states that have already clamped down on power plants train their sights on the transportation sector. The states are considering a new cap-and-trade program modeled after the Regional Greenhouse
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) The promise is this: Manta could one day skim algae right off of the Chesapeake Bay and convert it into oil, simultaneously cleaning up deadly algae blooms and providing the precursor for clean, renewable fuels. Manta licensed its harvesting technology from the University of Maryland Center for
by Todd Neeley (DTN The Progressive Farmer) Cellulosic technology companies have invested time and millions of dollars to explore ways to convert biomass into cellulosic ethanol for the better part of 20 years. Most technologies have fallen victim to high capital and development costs, changing political winds and economic recession. Many
(Union of Concerned Scientistst) Statement by Ken Kimmell, Union of Concerned Scientists — Leading environmental, health, scientific and business organizations today applauded the announcement by seven states and Washington, D.C. of plans to develop a regional policy to reduce carbon pollution from the transportation sector. The move was endorsed today by the
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) … There are no tires in Nevertire because Green Distillation Technologies, some 20 clicks up the road in Warren, is operating its Destructive Distillation technology at pilot scale and is recycling used tires into oil, carbon and steel wire cord. … Tires are a potent source of raw material.
(Montgomery College) Montgomery College will again host the Maryland High School Science Bowl Competition for 2018 on Jan. 13 at the Rockville Campus. The winner of this regional competition advances to the National Science Bowl in Washington, D.C. Without the help of volunteers, science bowl competitions could not thrive. Accordingly,
(Hood College) Hood College is pleased to announce an exciting new opportunity, funded in part by the Maryland E-Nnovation Initiative Fund (MEIF), administered by the Maryland Department of Commerce and the Hodson Foundation. The Department of Biology is seeking to fill an endowed chair full-time tenure-track faculty position specializing in
(University of New England) The United States Department of Energy (DOE) announced that the University of New England was awarded a three-year, nationally competitive research grant for $1,321,039 from DOE’s Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E). DOE awardees are part of a new program called “Macroalgae Research Inspiring Novel Energy Resources
(Synbiobeta) Research builds on a series of recent landmark studies, at JCVI, which have led to transformative new methodology for synthetic biology and functional genomics — Scientists, led by the J. Craig Venter Institute (JCVI), a not-for-profit genomic research organization, were recently awarded a 5-year, $10.7 million grant by the United States
(Maryland Energy Administration) The Maryland Energy Administration (MEA) is excited to announce the opening of the FY18 Animal Waste to Energy Grant Program (AWE Grant Program). MEA has made $3,500,000 available in two Areas of Interest (AOI) – on-farm/pilot scale and a community/regional scale. For details regarding the grant program requirements and restrictions, please see the FY18

The 2017 Small Farm Conference will be held again in the Student Services Center (SSC). The SSC is the heart of the UMES Campus. Spanning some 147,000 square feet, the length of two football fields, this state-of-the-art two-story building is equipped with a theatre, ballroom, classrooms, exhibit hall, lounges, dining
by Mikkel Pates (Agweek) The Environmental Protection Agency predicted it might take six months to do an initial evaluation of “energy beets” for their environmental footprint as a feedstock for biofuels. Six years — not months — later the agency has a thumbs up on energy beets as a feedstock
by Pam Radtke Russell (Engineering News Record) From Seattle to Cape Cod, see what’s being done at 18 different locations — … In this special report, Engineering News-Record’s team of editors and reporters look at how Tangier and other coastal communities around the country are tackling problems, including erosion, subsidence
by Joe Heim (The Washington Post) On Maryland’s Eastern Shore, rising seawater levels and chronic flooding threaten to disrupt daily life, damage homes and businesses, and swallow land in the relatively near future, according to a new study. For some parts of the Eastern Shore, there soon may be
(Phys.Org/Michigan State University) Could cellulosic biofuels – or liquid energy derived from grasses and wood – become a green fuel of the future, providing an environmentally sustainable way of meeting energy needs? In Science, researchers at the U.S. Department of Energy-funded Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center say yes, but with a

School districts face many challenges with pupil transportation. Cost is certainly one of them. Diesel prices ebb and flow, making it difficult to accurately budget fuel costs. Health issues are also of concern for both the student passengers and the technicians who maintain them. Diesel fuel is a known carcinogen;

(US Department of Agriculture/Federal Register) A Notice by the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service on 05/18/2017 We are advising the public that the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service is hosting a series of public meetings to provide the public with an opportunity to offer comments on proposed revisions
by Charles Komanoff (Huffington Post) The Carbon Tax Center is out with a new report timed to the surging climate movement. We surveyed all 50 U.S. states (and Washington, DC) to identify the ones with the most favorable conditions for enacting a statewide carbon tax. Joining the report is a
(Gant News) Pennsylvania Grain Processing Corn Merchandiser, Brian Kelly, was a little doubtful four years ago when he first approached Sheetz Inc. about selling new blends of ethanol at its fuel station near Interstate 80 in Clearfield. “Truthfully, I didn’t think we would get too much of a response. I
by Madeline St. Amour (CentralMaine.com) The decision by a Superior Court justice marks the end of the Fiberight project’s last legal battle and one of its major hurdles. — A Maine Superior Court justice on Wednesday affirmed state environmental permits for a controversial solid waste plant that would serves dozens
(Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board/Ethanol Producer Magazine) The Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board has launched a four-month ethanol advertising campaign in the Mid-Atlantic. This includes postcards, bus, video, internet and radio advertising designed to highlight ethanol fuel and local stations offering higher ethanol blends. The “You Have a Choice” campaign
(Biofuels Journal) Researchers at John Hopkins University, USA, have created artificial lichens using bacteria and yeast that are capable of producing materials for biofuels directly from sunlight and CO2. The research is published in the open access journal Biotechnology for Biofuels next week. … In the current study, the researchers
by Amy Mayer (Iowa Public Radio) The agriculture sector needs to ramp up its response to climate change, especially in the Midwest, according to a new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. … Lead author Xin-Zhong Liang, a professor at the University of Maryland, says both
by Allen Etzler (Frederick News Post) A near $2 million endowment will be used to help Hood College continue developing its biology department and build collaborations with the biotech industry. The college recently received $944,000 under a matching endowment for the “Endowed Chair in Advanced Bioproducts Research and Education” from
by Dani Bozzini (WMDT) The governor of Maryland toured the Eastern Shore today and one of his stops was to a farm in Dorchester County with a ground breaking new program, converting animal waste into energy. Governor Larry Hogan, along with several other state and industry leaders, got a good
by Emily Witty (MD Biz News) … (Ryan) Powell and his business partner Onur Unal are the founders of Manta Biofuel, a Baltimore-based biotechnology firm producing renewable crude oil through the harvesting and processing of algae. Just two and a half years ago, Powell was researching the technology. Now, he is
by Joanne Ivancic* (Advanced Biofuels USA) Highlighting Advanced Biofuels USA’s work on a feasibility study of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore energy beet project proved to attract many visitors and a bit of buzz at the Keystone Farm Show, “The Farm Show for Farmers,” in York, Pennsylvania from January
by Chip Bowling (U.S. Farmers and Ranchers Alliance/Washington Post) I consider myself an environmentalist, a conservationist and a farmer. This is an identity I share with many farmers in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, which spans more than 64,000 square miles in six states and the District of Columbia and is
(U.S. Department of Energy) Today, the Energy Department (DOE) announced the selection of six projects for up to $12.9 million in federal funding, entitled, “Project Definition for Pilot- and Demonstration-Scale Manufacturing of Biofuels, Bioproducts, and Biopower.” These projects, required to share the cost at a minimum of 50%, will develop

(ARPA-E Energy Innovation Summit) Do you have a novel idea that can help solve our nation’s energy challenges? If you have a great idea and are willing to share it with the world, apply to the “Energy Ideas to Change the World” Pitching Session at the 2017 ARPA-E Energy Innovation
by Joanne Ivancic (Advanced Biofuels USA) Global Business America, part of Global Business Publishing, highlighted Advanced Biofuels USA’s study of the feasibility of an energy beet project for the Eastern Shore of Maryland and Delmarva Peninsula with a photo-packed spread in the Planet Green portion of it’s English edition. Global
by Meghan Sapp (Biofuels Digest) In Maryland, the state’s Technology Development Corporation (TEDCO) announced today that 19 companies have received over $1.9 million in funding from the organization’s Seed Investment Fund in the last six months. The funding will be used to advance the companies’ technology and product commercialization efforts.
by Joanne Ivancic* (Advanced Biofuels USA) “I want to make this land productive again,” was a common refrain at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore’s 13th Annual Small Farm Conference November 11-12. Whether returning to a disused family farm or starting on a new venture, many attendees shared a desire

BIOCYCLE EAST COAST17, April 4-7 2017 in Ellicott City, Maryland, is accepting abstracts for presentations. The Conference theme is Growing The Organics Recycling Industry. Abstracts should be no longer than 250 words. Deadline for abstract submittal is December 15, 2016. Due to the volume of abstracts submitted by equipment vendors
by Roger Real Drouin (Yale Environment 360) A steady increase in sea levels is pushing saltwater into U.S. wetlands, killing trees from Florida to as far north as New Jersey. But with sea level projected to rise by as much as six feet this century, the destruction of coastal forests is
(Sheetz/PR Newswire) Through the Biofuel Infrastructure Partnership, Sheetz completes its 10th E85/E15 refueling station in Virginia — Sheetz, one of America’s fastest-growing family-owned and operated convenience retailers, celebrated the impact of the USDA (U.S. Department of Agriculture) Biofuel Infrastructure Project Grant with the opening of its 10th E85 and E15
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In a $250 million transaction this month, including working capital, Green Plains acquired Fleischmann’s Vinegar, financed with $135 million of debt with the balance paid from cash on hand. A group of lenders led by Maranon Capital, L.P provided a $130 million term loan and a $15

Former U.S. Congressman Wayne T. Gilchrest is keynote speaker for the 13th annual Small Farm Conference to be held at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore on Friday and Saturday, November 11 and 12. An event that is popular on the Lower Eastern Shore and beyond, the two-day conference promises
by Jeremy Cox (DelmarvaNow) … The beet plants bred by his (Frank Turano’s) company, meanwhile, appear to be largely free of disease. And they’re producing tubers up to twice the size of the commercial varieties growing in the same rows. Turano, the head scientist for the Baltimore-based Plant Sensory Systems, is partnering

Learn how hundreds of American small businesses have used Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) finance and insurance products to gain access to emerging markets overseas. Discover how you can take advantage of all the products OPIC has to offer to expand internationally while supporting growth at home. Participants will also
by Joanne Ivancic* (Advanced Biofuels USA) Electricity. When describing the USS Zumwalt, which was commissioned in Baltimore Harbor Saturday, the first characteristic to mention is the new age design (can’t miss that); followed by the key role played by electricity (a bit less obvious). From the “all-electric” propulsion system to
by Brad Rich (Coastal Review Online) As the U.S. and other countries have ramped up development of bio-energy as an alternative to fossil fuels, demand is rising for trees for wood pellets, or biomass, and agricultural products for liquefied biofuels. A recent multi-year study by researchers at North Carolina State University and
by Joanne Ivancic* (Advanced Biofuels USA) The purpose of Ag Field Days, education, goes both ways. Those doing demonstrations and exhibits often learn just as much from those attending the events. True again at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore/University of Maryland Extension 1890 Program/US Department of Agriculture Ag Field
by Bill Loveless (USA Today) … Biofuels are not new for the U.S. Navy and Air Force, which have been experimenting with blends on aircraft and ships for several years. In fact, all Navy ships and aircraft are now certified to run on up to 50-50 blends of conventional and
(Advanced Biofuels USA) Advanced Biofuels USA fully supports meeting the 2022 CAFE standards. It is our understanding that the key to vehicle manufacturers meeting these standards rests on the ability to use high levels of low cost octane to operate their advanced technology turbo-charged engines at the highest level of

The ARPA-E Energy Innovation Summit is an annual conference and technology showcase that brings together experts from different technical disciplines and professional communities to think about America’s energy challenges in new and innovative ways. Now in its eighth year, the Summit offers a unique, three-day program aimed at moving transformational
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The USDA recently announced $7.4 million in grants will be awarded to 76 small businesses through the Small Business Innovation Research program to support research related to food security, natural resources and agricultural issues. … Bioenergy related awards include: Infinite Energy LLC: Infinite Energy
by Andrea Watters (Naval Aviation News) Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus’ energy vision came to fruition in September when the EA-18G “Green Growler” completed flight testing of a 100-percent advanced biofuel at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Maryland. The U.S. Navy is a leader in incorporating alternative fuel into operational
(Sputnik News) The US Navy successfully tested a new advanced biofuel this month on a Boeing EA-18 “Green Growler” aircraft, a surveillance version of the Super-Hornet, the US Naval Institute reported on Friday. — The Boeing EA-18G Growler is an American carrier-based electronic warfare aircraft, a specialized version of the two-seat
by Todd Karli (WBOC) … A group of students and scientists are exploring the idea that sugar beets, what they’re calling energy beets, can be converted into jet fuel, with the Navy keeping a watchful eye. “This is so exciting because it hasn’t been done before,” said Joanne Ivancic, Advanced Biofuels
by Bill Loveless (USA Today) U.S. Navy Secretary Ray Mabus has made alternative energy a top priority since taking office in 2009, but this week he took his commitment to new heights, literally. The civilian leader for the Navy climbed aboard an EA-18G Growler fighter jet as a passenger on
by Jay Douthit (Kent County Farm Bureau/My Eastern Shore) To the editor: The Kent County Farm Bureau stands with the Maryland Farm Bureau in support of the National Corn Growers Association’s opposition to the Environmental Protection Agency’s proposed reduction of the corn-based ethanol content in gasoline. We opposed this proposed regulation because it

Agriculture Field Day at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore campus is set for Saturday, September 24. Themed “Addressing Food Security,” the day offers a host of educational, informational and recreational activities for the family. The fun starts with a brief check-in at 8 a.m. at the Student Services Center.
by Samantha Oller (CSP Daily News) Have I got a fuel for you! It is higher octane than E10, giving you greater bang for your buck. It features even more environmentally friendly, domestically produced ethanol. And it is actually a few cents cheaper—cheaper!—than regular, old regular-grade gasoline. Its name? Unleaded
For Immediate Release, September 7, 2016: Frederick, Maryland — The U.S. Department of Agriculture has provided $16,893 to Advanced Biofuels USA, a Maryland based 501(c) 3 nonprofit educational organization, for a feasibility study of producing bio-jetfuel from energy beets grown on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. The study will look
by Brady Dennis (The Washington Post) The real estate data firm Zillow recently published a research analysis that estimated rising sea levels could leave nearly 2 million U.S. homes inundated by 2100, a fate that would displace millions of people and result in property losses in the hundreds of billions
by Chip Bowling (Capital Gazette/National Corn Growers Association) Letter to Editor: As a boater from Southern Maryland, I read Chris Dollar’s latest column with interest (The Capital, July 17). But he cited some inaccurate claims from BOATUS about ethanol-blended fuel. In reality, the Environmental Protection Agency is not asking boaters to
by Rebecca Chillrud (Environmental and Energy Study Institute) … Gas stations that offer higher blends are currently few and far between, but the ACE’s “Retailer Roadmap” aims to help change the fuels landscape. The Roadmap analyzes the potential demand for higher blends in each state, compiles the incentives for retailers available

The Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education is a membership association of colleges & universities, businesses and nonprofits who are working together to lead the sustainability transformation. AASHE’s educational program covers the higher education sustainability community’s most relevant and timely topics – providing leadership and change agency
by Bruce Hotchkiss (The Delmarva Farmer) A $5 million grant from the USDA is providing the financial foundation for the installation of 30 ethanol refueling stations across Maryland and Virginia. As originally conceived, the work — which has been underway in Maryland since the first of the year — will
(Maryland Energy Administration) The Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Program (AFIP) is intended to aid in the development of public access, alternative fuel refilling/charging infrastructure in the state of Maryland. As such, MEA anticipates issuing one or more grants to applicants for installation of alternative fuel refilling/charging stations in Maryland. … Moreover,
(NGT News) The Maryland Energy Administration (MEA) says that it is now accepting applications for the Maryland Freedom Fleet Voucher (FFV) Program, which intends to provide incentives for various alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs), over the 2017 fiscal year. … As reported, eligible vehicles include on-highway dedicated compressed natural gas, dedicated liquefied
by Valerie Volcovici (Reuters) Rising sea levels due to hurricanes and tidal flooding intensified by climate change will put military bases along the U.S. East Coast and Gulf Coast at risk, according to a report released on Wednesday. Nonprofit group the Union of Concerned Scientists analyzed 18 military installations that
by Madeline St. Amour (CentralMaine.com) The Department of Environmental Protection issued the permits after finding no ‘credible, conflicting technical information’ that merited a public hearing. The Department of Environmental Protection has issued the final permits for a first-of-its-kind waste management plant in Hampden that would convert trash from more than
by Chris Clayton (DTN Progressive Farmer) Coalition Sees Opportunity in Higher Fuel Economy Standards — Leaders and founders of the Governors’ Biofuels Coalition see a push for higher fuel-economy standards as the next opportunity to spur more biofuels production around the country. The group met Saturday at the National Governors’
by David Shepardson (Reuters) Three U.S. states plan to unveil new lawsuits against Volkswagen AG (VOWG_p.DE) on Tuesday tied to the automaker’s sale of diesel vehicles with emissions-cheating software, even after they announced settlements with the German automaker in June. Maryland Attorney General Brian E. Frosh said in a news
(Algae Industry Magazine) Manta Biofuel, of Bethesda, Maryland has won a $1 million award from the U.S. Department of Energy to further develop its algal technology. A member of Bethesda Green’s business incubator, Manta Biofuel LLC is a biotechnology firm that has developed a patent-pending method for producing renewable crude oil from algae.
by Charlotte Hsu (University at Buffalo/Biomass Magazine) Researchers from four U.S. universities are teaming up with dairy farms across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic to study the effect of three different manure management techniques on preventing the occurrence and spread of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria, genes tied to resistance, and antibiotic residues—traces of
by Joanna Schroeder (Energy.AgWired.com) The Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board (MGPUB) has launched its Drive Flex Fuel video contest to kick off its 2016 Maryland Drive Flex Fuels advertising campaign. Winning-worthy videos will be 30 seconds and educate and encourage drivers to choose ethanol fuels including E15 and E85 at the
by Joanne Ivancic* (Advanced Biofuels USA) “Don’t come to listen, come to act.” That’s what the invitation from the Rural Maryland Council, USDA Rural Development office and Maryland Broadband Cooperative said. We were invited to connect for a day with other public innovators interested in moving Delmarva forward as a thriving
(U.S. Department of Energy) The Consortium for Algal Biofuel Commercialization (CAB-Comm), led by the University of California, San Diego, has just released its final report, detailing the many accomplishments and impactful contributions achieved in its six years of operation. CAB-Comm was established in 2010 through a competitive award from the
(Rural Maryland Council) Established in 2000, the Maryland Agricultural Education and Rural Development Assistance Fund (MAERDAF) offers important financial support to rural-serving nonprofit organizations that promote statewide and regional planning, economic and community development, and agricultural and forestry education efforts. The Fund also provides targeted financial assistance to community colleges
(University of Maryland Program for Public Consultation) … To find out what Americans would recommend when given facts and arguments, the Program for Public Consultation at the University of Maryland developed an in‐depth survey instrument called a ‘policymaking simulation’ to be used for a Citizen Cabinet survey—a survey of a representative panel of registered
(U.S. Department of Energy) Algae absorb nutrients and produce oxygen—ecosystem services that are vital to the health of impaired water bodies like the Chesapeake Bay and Gulf of Mexico. Energy Department-funded researchers are investigating how to mimic these natural services, while at the same time, sustainably produce biomass for conversion

Climate change and sustainability are defining issues of our age; and a robust, multi-sector response will be required to pivot societies toward a more sustainable future for all. As a global leader in environmental research, policy analysis and climate action; as a co-sponsor of Climate Action 2016; and in line
(U.S. Department of Energy) Algae absorb nutrients and produce oxygen—ecosystem services that are vital to the health of impaired water bodies like the Chesapeake Bay and Gulf of Mexico. Energy Department-funded researchers are investigating how to mimic these natural services, while at the same time, sustainably produce biomass for conversion
(Diesel Technology Forum) Legislation signed by Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan on Tuesday will seek to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40 percent by 2030 relative to emissions generated in 2006. “As Governor Hogan signs legislation to cut greenhouse gas emissions from Maryland, clean diesel stands ready to deliver significant fuel savings
by Keona Gardner (TCPalm) … Indian River Bio Diesel is seeking city approval to operate a plant that would process 250,000 gallons of its product a month in the now-vacant Egan packinghouse, 1103 N. Second St. The plant is a subsidiary of Genuine Bio-Fuel Inc., which already operates a facility
by Robert Kozak* (Advanced Biofuels USA) We welcome US Representatives Adam Kinzinger, Barbara Comstock, Joe Heck, Chris Gibson, Ryan Costello, Kevin Yoder, Richard Hanna, Dave Reichert, Elise Stefanik, Carlos Curbelo, Tom Reed and Bob Dold to the fight against climate change and pollution with the founding of the House Republican Energy,
(US Department of Agriculture) Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced the availability of up to $260 million for partner proposals to improve the nation’s water quality, combat drought, enhance soil health, support wildlife habitat and protect agricultural viability. The funding is being made available through USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service’s
by Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.) and Rep. John K. Delaney (D-Md. 6th) (The Hill) … Closer to home, the Chesapeake Bay communities of Smith Island and Tangier Island could be two of the first U.S. communities displaced by the effects of climate change. Economically, the number of manufacturing, construction, maintenance and other
For Immediate Release February 11, 2016—Frederick, MD Readers and editors of the international online publication, Biofuels Digest, for the sixth consecutive year, recognized Advanced Biofuels USA executive director Joanne Ivancic as one of the Top 100 People in the Advanced Bioeconomy. “Recognition by the readers and editors of Biofuels Digest,
(American Society for Microbiology) Curbing climate change with algae using innovative environmental technology. Cultures Magazine by the American Society for Microbiology visits HY-TEK Bio and the Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology to find out how one innovative biotech company is using algae to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and produce high-value consumer
(Diesel Technology Forum) Maryland Approves Nearly $100 Million for New Clean Diesel Buses — The Maryland Transit Administration is now in line to receive almost $100 million to invest in 172 advanced clean diesel buses after receiving approval by the state’s spending board on Wednesday. The Baltimore Business Journal reported
by Joanne Ivancic* (Advanced Biofuels USA) Once we decided to go forward with the E85 conversion, Bob Kozak researched options for retrofitting my bright yellow 2002 Ford Focus ZX3. He decided that the kit offered by Fuel Flex International would probably meet our needs. Getting Started with the Right E85
by Maija Sihvonen* (Advanced Biofuels USA) Global Cleantech Summit 2015 concentrated on cleantech strategies and business cooperation. Some venture capitalists have already declared cleantech dead as it has undergone the typical innovation life-cycle and has suffered somewhat from hype. However, based on the presentations at the conference, it seems cleantech
(Algae Industry Magazine) In any industry, a few incredible people make an enormous impact. The algae industry is fortunate to honor Algae Ambassadors that are great scientists and industry leaders. They are also superb educators for our next generation of algae scientists and business leaders. The Algae Ambassadors have inspired
(Associated Press/Frederick News Post) The Garrett County Commissioners are considering a Deep Creek Lake watershed management plan that would restrict drilling for natural gas in the resort area. … The plan was drafted in 2014. It would prohibit wellheads on 41,000 acres around the lake. Some of that acreage overlies part
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In Maryland, the US Patent and Trademark Office issued patent number 9,217,161for a process to ferment biomass or gases directly to hydrocarbons like hexane and octane. The process belongs to the electrofuels family — technologies involving microorganisms that could use hydrogen or electricity to convert
by Oilver Milman (The Guardian) Effects of sea level rise hit close to home for Americans as US army corps of engineers report finds that Tangier Island is crumbling into the sea — You don’t have to travel to a balmy Pacific island to hear the anguish of people whose
by Robert E. Kozak* (Advanced Biofuels USA) Here at Advanced Biofuels USA we’ve been banging the drum for E30 for a number of years. Equal fuel mileage, better performance, you know the facts. Well, all that time we never had a Flex Fuel car, either factory built or retrofitted. This
by Joanne Ivancic* (Advanced Biofuels USA) Since retrofitting a 2002 Ford Focus ZX3 to a FlexFuel vehicle in mid-November, we have substituted use of home-grown renewable fuel for 63% of a barrel of fossil fuel oil. It was a bit of an adventure. Here at Advanced Biofuels USA, we decided
by Jeff Plungis (Bloomberg) Batteries generate power less efficiently as temperatures drop. — … The trouble is, except for Oregon, none of the states have California’s temperate weather. The batteries used by the greener cars generate electricity from chemical reactions that work less efficiently as temperatures drop. In tests conducted by the
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In Maryland, The US Patent and Trademark Office issued patent number 9,193,979 for ethanol-tolerant microorganisms that convert cellulosic biomass to ethanol. The patent describes using the microorganisms to produce ethanol from crop or waste biomass like food waste, crop residues (e.g. corn stalks), algae, or
by Chris Prentice (Reuters) U.S. House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi and three other lawmakers are pressing President Barack Obama not to back-peddle on the country’s biofuels program just days ahead of global climate change talks in Paris. The Democratic Representatives – Pelosi from California, Steny Hoyer from Maryland, Collin Peterson
(Office of Governor Terry McAuliffe) Governor Terry McAuliffe announced today (October 29, 2015) that Virginia, in partnership with Maryland, was selected for a U.S. Department of Agriculture grant totaling nearly $5 million to install ethanol refueling infrastructure in Virginia. The states will work with private sector stakeholders to add at
by Joanne Ivancic* (Advanced Biofuels USA) Education encompasses a core part of Advanced Biofuels USA’s mission. We meet this is many ways. Attending conferences, meeting with Congressional staff, exhibiting at a variety of events from the Keystone Farm Show to university science symposiums to Extension Field Days to local environmental
by Joanne Ivancic* (Advanced Biofuels USA) Bob Kozak, board member, biologist, mobile source air pollution expert and backyard auto mechanic, just installed the FuelFlex International Ethanol Upgrade System in the 2002 Ford Focus we use for business and personal trips. She just got her first sip of ethanol–E85 added to
(Advanced Biofuels USA) The Frederick County, Maryland, Office of Sustainability and Environmental Resources (OSER) featured local nonprofit Advanced Biofuels USA in its Fall 2015 newsletter. “So many people only know about corn-based ethanol. And many list solar, wind and geothermal as substitutes for petroleum. We want to remind them that although
(Maryland Technology Enterprise Institute/PR Newswire) The Chesapeake Bay Seed Capital Fund has invested $150,000 into Manta Biofuel LLC, a company that produces crude oil from algae at a cost that is competitive with traditional petroleum, University of Maryland officials announce today. The promise is this: Manta could one day skim algae
(CNN Money/Market Watch/Aemetis) New Delhi Has the Worst Air Pollution in the World — Aemetis, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMTX), an advanced renewable fuels and biochemicals company, announced that distilled biodiesel produced by its subsidiary in India reduces major causes of air pollution by 80%. Prime Minister Modi has set a target of
by Casey Logan (News-Press) … (Algenol CEO Paul) Woods isn’t on the mission alone. Algenol employs more than 200 people in Lee County, he said, and the company has invested $260 million here. … “This is the first week we will be able to sell our fuel” to refineries, he says.
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) USDA announces state finalists for the Biofuel Infrastructure Partnership. Will it move the needle? The Digest investigates. In Washington, US Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that 21 states will receive grants through the Biofuel Infrastructure Partnership (BIP) to add infrastructure needed to supply more renewable
(US Department of Agriculture) Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced that 21 states will receive grants through the Biofuel Infrastructure Partnership (BIP) to add infrastructure needed to supply more renewable fuel to America’s drivers. Since announcing the program in May 2015, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Farm Service Agency
(US Department of Energy) The Energy Department today announced up to $9 million for the design of sustainable bioenergy systems that maintain or enhance the environmental and socio-economic sustainability of cellulosic bioenergy through the improvement of feedstock production, logistics systems, and technology development. This funding supports the Department’s efforts to

The Symposium has been designed to provide an innovative and comprehensive overview of the latest research developments in the areas of science, nanotechnology, human health and environment. We encourage all students, fellows, technicians, faculty and others to present their work at this meeting, as one important purpose of the meeting
As the preeminent energy innovation event, the annual conference gathers a unique audience of technical experts from a variety of disciplines, influential policymakers, business leaders, investors and entrepreneurs to think about America’s energy challenges in new and innovative ways. This year’s Summit will focus on “Celebrating the Energy Entrepreneur” with programming geared to:
(Green Car Congress) Researchers at the University of Maryland are proposing a new process to isolate and to direct the evolution of microorganisms that convert cellulosic biomass or gaseous CO2 and H2 to biofuels such as ethanol, 1-butanol, butane, or hexane (among others). The approach is based on the theory
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Scientists from the University of Maryland will report in the Journal of Theoretical Biology that they have isolated several different strains of bacteria that make high concentrations of biofuels from cellulosic biomass or from carbon dioxide and hydrogen gas. The authors isolated bacteria that make

Due to popular demand, the deadline for abstracts has been extended to Sunday, December 6! Abstracts for oral and poster presentations at the 38th SBFC are being accepted in the following research topics: Feedstocks (3 sessions) Pretreatment and Fractionation (3 sessions) Enzyme Science and Technology (3 sessions) Microbial Science and Technology

The Society for Industrial Microbiology and Biotechnology is currently accepting abstracts for oral and poster presentations to be presented at the 38th Symposium on Biotechnology for Fuels and Chemicals (SBFC). Technical talks and posters make up the majority of presentations, however detailed and informative presentations regarding commercial- and demonstration-scale endeavors
(Plant Sensory Systems) Just Beets LLC to Sell Plant Sensory Systems’ Proprietary Beet Seeds — Plant Sensory Systems, LLC (PSS) announced the formation of a subsidiary company, Just Beets LLC, to produce, sell and distribute PSS’ proprietary beet seeds. Beets are an ideal crop for growing on marginal or underused
by John Fritze (Baltimore Sun) … Former Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley, who is running for the Democratic presidential nomination, is winning praise from corn farmers in Iowa for his support of a federal mandate to blend biofuels into gasoline. But the stance does not sit well with the poultry industry in
by Sylvia Carignan (Frederick News Post) The future of Frederick County agriculture sits in a plastic tank in a dusty, cow-scented barn outside of Middletown. South Mountain Creamery’s soybean press takes soybeans and creates soy oil, stored in large tanks, that the farm converts into biodiesel fuel for its tractors. The
(Maryland Technology Enterprise Institute ) The Maryland Industrial Partnerships (MIPS) program, an initiative of the Maryland Technology Enterprise Institute (Mtech) in the A. James Clark School of Engineering at the University of Maryland, has approved 15 collaborative technology product development projects teaming Maryland companies with university researchers, program officials announce
by Paul Driessen (Town Hall) … The tale of Philip Joseph Rivkin (aka Felipe Poitan Arriaga) reveals an equally disgusting aspect of the mandate, resulting from the absurdly complex Renewable Identification Number (RIN) system devised by EPA bureaucrats. As Ron Arnold explains in our book,Cracking Big Green, EPA requires that every gallon
by Grant Rodgers (Des Moines Register) Democratic presidential hopeful Martin O’Malley strongly backed renewable fuel producers on Thursday, calling on the Obama administration to rethink its controversial proposal to lower standards for the amount of ethanol that will be mixed into U.S. gasoline through the next year. Any lowering of
(Morgan State) CycloBurn Combustion System™ Provides Relief to Poultry Farmers and Protects Environment Morgan State University professor and lab director for the School of Engineering’s Industrial and Systems Engineering department, Dr. Seong W. Lee, and his research team are the recipients of a $100,000 Phase 1 award from the Maryland
Martin O’Malley (USA Today) … New technologies now put an independent clean energy future decidedly within our reach as a nation. … I would keep domestically produced oil and gas in the U.S. READ MORE
by Joby Warrick (The Washington Post) … Soaring demand for this woody fuel has led to the construction of more than two dozen pellet factories in the Southeast in the past decade, along with special port facilities in Virginia and Georgia where mountains of pellets are loaded onto Europe-bound freighters. European

At the Frederick County Public Library in Frederick, Maryland, Advanced Biofuels USA executive director, Joanne Ivancic, will present a 3-part discussion series about advanced biofuels based on work being done by this internationally recognized educational nonprofit organization located in Frederick. On the last Mondays of the months of June, July and August
by Kathie Obradovich (Des Moines Register) In his first trip to Iowa as an official presidential candidate, Republican Ben Carson waded into the shark-infested ethanol issue up to his neck and then did a leisurely lap around the climate change pool. Asked about the Renewable Fuel Standard during a Des
by Joanne Ivancic* (Advanced Biofuels USA) Another in our series of stories about promising technologies applicable to the development of a robust advanced biofuel economy diverting to fossil fuel use for research, development and deployment. This time it’s not a conversion technology or a bioproduct, but an element of production
(National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) Refining ethanol may release more of some pollutants than burning it in vehicles. After quantifying the airborne emissions from the nation’s third largest ethanol refinery, a team led by NOAA and University of Colorado–Boulder researchers has found that for some gases, refining ethanol releases
by Megan Greenwalt (Waste 360) … Anaerobic digester developer AgEnergy USA and Perdue Farms, a major chicken processing company based in Salisbury, Md., recently signed a letter of intent for a project that will use poultry waste to develop biogas while reducing nitrogen and phosphorous in the state of Maryland. … The
(Intreson/PR NewsWire) Intrexon and FuturaGene Collaborate to Develop Unique Attributes and Agronomic Properties in Significant Plant Species Intrexon Corporation (NYSE: XON), a leader in synthetic biology, and FuturaGene Group, a wholly owned subsidiary of Suzano Papel e Celulose S.A., the second largest producer of eucalyptus pulp in the world,
by Rick Smith (The Gazette) No one has claimed that making biofuel out of garbage is as simple as tossing leftovers into the trash. So it is that Craig Stuart-Paul, president and chief executive officer of the Maryland-based Fiberight LLC, said this week that his company is shifting gears again
by Jon Hurdle and Susan Phillips (StateImpactNPR.org) Radon levels in buildings near unconventional natural gas development in Pennsylvania are higher than those in other areas of the state, suggesting that hydraulic fracturing has opened up new pathways for the carcinogenic gas to enter people’s homes, according to a study published

Dr. Julio Friedmann, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Clean Coal and Carbon Management, U.S. Department of Energy Abstract Fossil Fuels have re-emerged as a critical component of the US and global energy economy, including advances in unconventional oil and gas production, increased coal use world-wide, and geopolitical events. Similarly, increased fossil

The Rural Maryland Council (RMC) Conference Planning Committee is accepting speaker proposals. We are especially interested in presentations on best practices, engagement, and/or innovation in these areas: Agriculture Broadband implementation and access Youth Engagement Workforce and Economic Development Community Development Health Care Energy Tentatively scheduled for Tuesday, December 1, and

Tentatively scheduled for Tuesday, December 1, and Wednesday, December 2 in the central Maryland area, the 2015 Rural Summit will bring together an estimated 100+ professionals and grass root individuals from throughout Rural Maryland. Stakeholders include rural citizens; State and local government leaders; grass root nonprofit organizations that work in rural
by Timothy B. Wheeler (Baltimore Sun) A New Hampshire-based company has teamed with poultry giant Perdue to propose a $200 million plant on the Eastern Shore to extract energy from chicken manure, offering its plan as a viable remedy for the farm pollution fouling the Chesapeake Bay. Officials with AgEnergyUSA
The Maryland Clean Energy Center is pleased to announce the addition of Joanne Ivancic, Executive Director, Advanced Biofuels USA to the MCEC 2015 Advisory Council. Advanced Biofuels USA , a nonprofit educational organization headquartered in Frederick, Maryland, advocates for the adoption of advanced biofuels as an energy security, economic development,
(Science Daily/University of Arizona) Sea levels from New York to Newfoundland jumped up about four inches in 2009 and 2010 because ocean circulation changed. The unusual spike in sea level caused flooding along the northeast coast of North America and was independent of any hurricanes or winter storms. A new

Submit your technical research and development innovations for review and consideration for poster presentation.. Your submission will be reviewed by at last three members of our review committee who will favor work that is innovative and has clearly defined applications focus and/or industry relevance. Symposia are designed to have both
For Immediate Release January 30, 2015—Frederick, MD Readers and editors of the international online publication, Biofuels Digest, for the fifth consecutive year, recognized Advanced Biofuels USA executive director Joanne Ivancic as one of the Top 125 People in the Advanced Bioeconomy. “I’m thrilled with this continued recognition from a select

The 19th Annual Green Chemistry & Engineering Conference (GC&E), will be held July 14-16, 2015 in the Washington DC area. As the longest running green chemistry conference in the United States, GC&E invites scientists, decision-makers, students, and advocates to come together, compare findings, and discuss the science of the future.
(Gevo) Multiple Test Flights Conducted on F/A-18 “Hornet” Using a 50/50 ATJ Blend The U.S. Navy, Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), and Gevo, Inc. (Nasdaq:GEVO), the world’s only commercial producer of renewable isobutanol, announced today the first successful “alcohol-to-jet” (ATJ) supersonic flight at the Naval Air Warfare Center in Patuxent
(North Country Public Radio) New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s administration will move to prohibit fracking in the state, citing unresolved health issues and dubious economic benefits of the widely used gas-drilling technique. Acting Health Commissioner Howard Zucker said years of research raised “red flags” about the potential health effects of