by Sarantis Michalopoulos (ERUACTIV) Farmers see biofuels as a crucial source of income but investors clashed with NGOs at an event organised by EURACTIV last week (12 May), over the European Commission’s post-2020 biofuels proposal and the realities of its
(Univeristy of Pittsburg/R&D Magazine) Numerous studies have raised critical concerns about the promise of corn ethanol's ability to mitigate climate change and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Some of the studies have suggested that after a full life cycle assessment--meaning
by Susanne Retka Schill (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Increasing efficiency is the ethanol industry’s top goal, and proving it to the U.S. EPA opens the way for expanded ethanol production. -- The number to beat to be named an efficient ethanol
by Meghan Sapp (Biofuels Digest) In Germany, UFOP said EU power plants should consider using more rapeseed oil as an energy source. “The rapeseed plants are real power plants,” the organization said, “From just two to three kilogrammes of seed sown
by Mike Lorenz (The Hill/Sheetz) Since the founding of Sheetz in 1952, “choice” for our customers and innovation have been central to our mission. ... Since choice and a total focus on our customers is central to who we are, it only makes
(Simon Fraser University ) Researchers at Simon Fraser University and Kwantlen Polytechnic University are teaming up to develop sustainable clean-tech solutions that will provide potable water and clean food globally, in areas challenged by climate change and fast-growing populations. The researchers
by V Rishi Kumar (The Hindu Business Line) My Eco Energy plans to set up a network of franchisee operated fuel dispensing stations for its non-petroleum based fuel Indizel, which the company states can be safely used in diesel vehicles. The
by Aruna Sharma (khabar India/Tribune) Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd. (HPCL) has roped in Engineers India Ltd (EIL), Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) for setting up India’s first second generation (2G) ethanol bio-refinery
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... As you can see from the hard data, the production cost for ethanol today is $1.22 per gallon, which translates to $51.24 per barrel. Now, on an energy basis — given that ethanol has 67%
by Wayne Hicks (National Renewable Energy Laboratory) Experiments bear repeating, especially when they explode on their way to the International Space Station. Almost two years ago, on June 28, 2015, the rocket carrying experiments from Chatfield High School to the orbiting
(Greenbelt Resources Corporation) Greenbelt Resources Corporation (OTC: GRCO), an innovator of sustainable energy production systems, announced the signing of a Letter of Intent (the LOI) by the Andrew J. Young (AJY) Foundation to build a biorefinery in the southeast U.S.
by Lauren Tyler (NGT News) The 2016 Compliance Report for the Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS), released today by the California Air Resources Board (CARB), shows 100% compliance with the regulation, presenting further evidence that renewable transportation fuels are rapidly
by Kathleen Phillips (AgriLife Today) Waste material from the paper and pulp industry soon could be made into anything from tennis rackets to cars. “We have overcome one of the industry’s most challenging issues by discovering how to make good quality carbon
(Eni) The agreement will see Eni’s refineries in Italy capitalize on a national energy resource by creating high quality biofuels from used vegetable oils, representing the final stage of the virtuous cycle of the “circular economy”. Used vegetable oils can be transformed
(SkyNRG) Today Swedavia, the largest Swedish airport operator, received its first volume of sustainable aviation fuel for 2017 at Gothenburg Airport. With this delivery, Swedavia takes a next step in reducing its entire business travel footprint from flying through its
by Erin Voegele (Biomass Magazine) The U.S. EPA recently posted a notice to its website approving a fuel pathway for Renewable Energy Group Inc.’s Geismar, Louisiana, biorefinery. The plant can now generate D5 advanced biofuel renewable identification numbers (RINs) for
(Bioenergy Insight) A biomass crop could be providing unexpected ecological benefits, according to a new study published in the European Journal of Wildlife Research. The authors of the study say that elephant grass (Miscanthus), which is commonly planted as a biomass crop,
by Lauren Tyler (NGT News) Ryder System Inc., a commercial fleet management, dedicated transportation and supply-chain solutions provider, has begun to offer renewable diesel fuel at its San Francisco fueling facility, located at 2700 3rd St. With this implementation, Ryder says
(Recycling Magazine) TO-SYN-FUEL is a project funded by Horizon 2020 EU’s new research and innovation programme, with the aim to build-up, operate and demonstrate the production of Synthetic Fuels and Green Hydrogen from waste biomass. ... Twelve SME, industrial, and scientific partners,
(IOP Environmental Research Web) Oil-palm plantations in Latin America are mostly replacing cattle pasture and other previously intervened lands rather than forests, a study by scientists in Puerto Rico has found. The research – which also revealed that most exported oil
(Svebio) We’re pleased to inform that the Scania Euro 6 ethanol truck joins the vehicle exhibition at Advanced Biofuels Conference next week. Time to change the game Globally, transport is a major source of fossil CO2 emissions. On the bright side, this
by Ryan Cooper (The Week) If humanity has any hope of stopping the civilization-threatening climate change crisis, gas-powered cars have to go. But how are people supposed to get around without them? Public transit is one answer, as are electric cars. And
by Sarantis Michalopoulos (EurActiv) The conflict between second and first generation biofuels – depicted as good and bad for the environment – only exists in Brussels. In fact, it’s the brainchild of the European Commission, Eric Sievers told EURACTIV.com. Eric Sievers
(Mahoney Environmental/PR Newswire) Mahoney Environmental, (www.mahoneyes.com) a leading recycler of cooking oil for over 60 years, recently unveiled its new tractor-trailer combination fleet. This new convoy order for 2017 consists initially of fifteen tractors and six trailers – all with
by Gary Luth (News-Gazette) ... Assertion one: "ethanol does not reduce greenhouse gases or lower emissions from automobiles vs. straight gasoline." Fact: A 2016 study released by USDA: "Life Cycle Analysis of the Greenhouse Gas Emissions of Corn-Based Ethanol" finds just
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... The world of feedstocks is watching biochar very carefully these days, and for good reason. Although it might feel quite a long ways upstream from the world of making and upgrading liquid fuels — affordable,
(Aemetis) Aemetis, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMTX) announced today (May 10, 2017) that its Universal Biofuels subsidiary has won its first contract to supply biodiesel to the India government-owned Oil Marketing Companies (“OMC”) in a public tender process. The total diesel market
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ICM is a company on the leading edge of an exciting industry—one dedicated to realizing every benefit of biofuels technology. Our equipment and processes are already used in the majority of U.S. ethanol plants, and
(Oak Ridge National Laboratory/Biomass Magazine) "Electrical” bacteria are the key ingredient in a new process developed by the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory that recycles wastewater from biofuel production to generate hydrogen. The hydrogen can then be used
by Erin Voegele (Biomass Magazine) The Biomass Power Association has released the results of a study demonstrating dramatic carbon benefits can be achieved by using forest residue-based biomass instead of natural gas in power generation facilities. The research determined that
(Phys.Org/Lancaster University) ... However, spent coffee grounds, which have a high calorific value, offer a good low-cost alternative feedstock. However, most used coffee grounds are currently just dumped. In 2014 more than nine million tonnes of spent coffee grounds were
by Marissa Luck (The Daily News) A Houston-based group of investors is once again looking to develop a biofuel refinery in Cowlitz County, more than a year after their plans for oil, propane and biofuel projects were rejected by the
by Jennifer Hermes (Environmental Leader) ... Other airlines have committed to advancing and commercializing sustainable aviation biofuels, as well – most airlines claim they are doing so in order to become more sustainable and lower carbon emissions – but it is
by Dyani Lewis (The Guardian) Oilier plants, new processing technologies and multipurpose crops could put the biofuel industry back in the race for greener transport fuels. -- Biofuels have long been touted as a carbon-neutral alternative to fossil fuels, doing
by Jennifer Hermes (Environmental Leader) In a bid to adopt more efficient and sustainable processes, Singapore Airlines (SIA) has begun operating what it calls “green package” flights on its non-stop San Francisco-Singapore route, powered by sustainable biofuels produced from used
(Phys.Org/University of Hong Kong) Straw is commonly used for feeding animals, burning, baling, etc. As one of the "Three Canton Treasures", straw can actually be used as a raw material to produce biofuel. ... With an increasing demand on biofuel in recent
by André Orban (Luchtzak.be) Over the coming two years, staff at the Delft University of Technology will take flights using biofuel. On Tuesday, the university signed an agreement to participate in KLM’s Corporate BioFuel Programme. KLM is the only European airline
(Global Bioenergies) European financing package amounting to €9.8 million, of which €4.4 million for Global Bioenergies; Industry consortium led by Global Bioenergies and bringing together Clariant, INEOS, IPSB, TechnipFMC and Linz University; Aim: converting agricultural residues (wheat straw) into isobutene derivatives
by Jin-Suk Lee and Kyu-Young Kang (IEA Bioenergy Task 39) Since Korea imports over 95% of its energy demand, thus energy security has always been an important driver in the national agenda. In addition, CO2 mitigation has become another important driver as
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) On May 7, Praj Industries Ltd. unveiled a demonstration-scale biorefinery capable of producing 1 MMly of cellulosic ethanol. The facility, located near Pune, India, is expected demonstrate the production of additional renewable fuels and
by Sarantis Michalopoulos (EurActiv) EU farmers are “very concerned” about the impact of the European Commission’s change of heart on biofuels, claiming the EU’s restrictive policy is putting thousands of rural jobs at risk. Yet, the EU executive defended its proposed
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) The production of Agrisoma’s Resonance Carinata is being expanded to multiple locations globally to provide a supply of sustainable, non-food oils for meeting the demand for sustainable biofuels. Resonance Carinata is certified sustainable by the
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) From Iowa we received news that Renewable Energy Group has agreed to acquire approximately 82 acres of land at its Geismar, Louisiana biorefinery from Lion Copolymer, for $20M. The goal? To improve and utilize to
by Marlene Cimons (Nexus Media) Look out for souped-up algae that can be made into food, fuel and pharmaceuticals. -- ... Researchers at the University of California San Diego and Sapphire Energyhave successfully grown a genetically engineered strain of algae outdoors for
by Viola Zhou (South China Morning Post) Lydia Lam Pui-ying will further her study at Kyoto University in Japan -- Hong Kong and Japanese scientists have discovered a new way to make biofuel from rice straw, which may offer a cheaper
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) The Digest's Complete March Madness webinars - 700+ slides available for your on-demand review. -- The Digest's March Madness series - 20 webinars covering the hottest topics as selected by Digest readers - featuring dozens
by Parimal M. Rohit (The Log) USC’s Wrigley Institute and Marine BioEnergy propose an experimental project to produce a biofuel alternative. -- Plans to build an experimental kelp cultivation system just off the shore of Catalina Island is slated to be
(Business Standard/Press Trust of India) Praj Industries, the global process solutions company, today said it has commenced its first integrated second generation technology (2G) smart bio-refinery to produce ethanol from agri-waste in Gujarat. The 2G demo plant produces ethanol by processing
(Commercial Alternative Aviation Fuel Initiative) CAAFI’s R&D team continued the Seminars on Alternatives to Petroleum (SOAP)-Jet webinar series on March 24th. This webinar series is intended to provide a forum for members of the alternative jet fuel R&D community to
(Commercial Alternative Aviation Fuels Initiative) The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) recently released the aviation biofuels report, “Potential Avenues for Significant Biofuels Penetration in the U.S. Aviation Market.” The report finds that it is possible to displace 30 percent of
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Can we enable the sustainable, nationwide production of biofuels that are compatible with transportation infrastructure, displace a share of petroleum‐derived fuels to reduce U.S. dependence on oil, and encourage the creation of a new domestic
(University of Washington/Biomass Magazine) The mountain pine beetle has destroyed more than 40 million acres of forest in the western United States. That amounts to an area the size of Washington state that is strewn with conifers left for dead. The
by RNG Coalition (Biomass Magazine) A new jobs study reveals that deploying trucks fueled by renewable natural gas could create up to 130,000 new jobs and add $14 billion to California’s economy. The ‘RNG Jobs Report’ examines the economic potential of
(IneffableIsland.com) Waste prunings from orchards, vineyards and olive groves could be a valuable source of biomass energy and help boost rural economies, say EU-funded researchers. The key ingredient is a sustainable supply chain. As the EU seeks alternatives to fossil fuels,
(Bio-Based News (Google Translation)) The nova Institute has analyzed the Commission's new RED II proposal and presented the most important results in one paper. CO 2 -based fuels are on the up, but the uneven treatment of the bio-based materials remains.
by Stephanie Reitz (UConn Communications/Biodiesel Magazine) UConn has become one of a select few public universities in the U.S. to achieve green certification for every dining hall on campus, based on practices used at each site to promote environmental sustainability. The
(Optimus Technologies/Biodiesel Magazine) The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection presented Pittsburgh-based Optimus Technologies and 20 other organizations from across the state with the 2017 Governor’s Award for Environmental Excellence. According to DEP, their projects “represent the very best in innovation, collaboration,
(American Chemical Society/EurekAlert!) Chicken is a favorite, inexpensive meat across the globe. But the bird's popularity results in a lot of waste that can pollute soil and water. One strategy for dealing with poultry poop is to turn it into
(La Journada (Google Translation)) In order to exploit waste from the confectionery industry and reduce the consumption of fossil fuels, which in their production and use are polluting, a group of scientists belonging to the Autonomous University of Querétaro (UAQ), uses
(SkyNRG) On Singapore Airlines’ (SIA) 70th anniversary, the carrier operated its first flight on sustainable biofuel. The morning flight departed from San Francisco Airport on May 1st and arrived in Singapore the next day. SIA partnered with the Civil Aviation
by Tom C. Doran (AgriNews Publications) Renewable fuels have come a long way since the first Earth Day 47 years ago, when gasohol was promoted as a way to reduce petroleum use. As part of this year’s observance, Robert White, Renewable Fuels
by Meghan Sapp (Biofuels Digest) In India, the Haryana state government has approved Indian Oil’s investment proposal for a $93.3 million 100,000 liter per day second-generation ethanol plant using crop waste including 50 acres of free or nearly free land
(Extension.org) The Northeast region of the United States (from the Ohio River to the New England coast) has the natural, social, and technological resources needed to help create a sustainable, rural renaissance by using biomass to create biofuels, biopower, and
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Although the bigger players — China, the US, Brazil and the EU take most of the headlines in the advanced bioeconomy, Canada is definitely “boxing above its weight class” these days, as the saying goes. In
(Propel/Military Technologies) Propel Fuels is launching the „105 Octane Tour” this week in California, offering Flex Fuel E85 for $1.05 per gallon at several retail locations to drive awareness of the fuel’s high octane rating which provides increased power and acceleration,
by Emily Skor (Growth Energy/Ethanol Producer Magazine) Growth Energy's CEO explains the importance of the recent ASTM standard for 100 RON test fuel in helping the ethanol industry achieve its goal of expanding the availability of higher-octane fuels. -- In March,
(The Rakyat Post) Bangladesh plans to begin turning some of the grain it produces into ethanol to make its fuel greener – but economists and experts warn the move could hurt food security in a country that is already a
by Tim Snyder (Equities.com/Crudefunders) ... With that in mind, we decided to break down the question of, “Is it worth it?” into four parts: price benefits, reduction of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), oxygenate replacement and green fuel alternatives. ... Ethanol was introduced in 2006, into
“Think of it as 100+ acres of energy storage and carbon sequestration,” said Kelly King, Vice President and Co-Founder of Pacific Biodiesel and recently inaugurated member of the Maui County Council. “There are 36,000 acres of fertile sugar cane lands
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) There just isn’t an organization out there like Pacific Biodiesel. Labors on, fighting the good fight, hitting every sustainability grace note, and always surprising the industry with one more innovative way of doing things. And here’s
Laís F. Thomaz* (Advanced Biofuels USA) During three days in São Paulo, F.O. Licht and Informa Group promoted their 13th Annual Conference on Sugar & Ethanol with panels discussing investments, global trade market, updates on E2G, and innovations in bioproducts,
by Ann Bailey (Ethanol Producer Magazine) DDGS' environmental benefits include methane reduction in cows, better phosphorus utilization reducing loss to the environment, improved sustainability. -- The benefits in feeding distillers grains are well known—it’s an economical, nutritious, palatable addition
by Tom Vilsack (The Hill/U.S. Dairy Export Council) This Earth Day, hundreds of thousands of people marched to “defend the vital role science plays in our health, safety, economies, and governments.” The March for Science echoed in communities around the
(GreenAir Online) While ICAO deliberates over rules concerning what offsets should be eligible under its carbon scheme for international aviation, a study prepared for the European Commission concludes the UN’s Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) has fundamental flaws in terms of
(Phys.Org) ... Taking up this double-edged sword is Cynthia Bartel, a doctoral candidate at Iowa State University. She's finding a way to lessen the harm and increase the benefits of removing maize stover. "While water and wind erosion are substantial problems for
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) This week, we hosted a webinar what is universally agreed to be the single largest new application of advanced industrial biotechnology — this is the Big Kahuna, or sustainable aviation fuel. Sustainability is critical to airlines, and
by Marc J. Rauch (The Auto Channel) ... Faced with some actual governmental actions that were detrimental to gasoline/diesel dominance, instead of the virtual carte blanche pro-petroleum fuel policies that they usually receive from the government, the petroleum oil industry is
(American Cleaning Institute) ACI praises Rep. Randy Weber’s "Stop Animal Fat Tax Credits Act," Urges Its Inclusion in Tax Reform Package -- Legislation introduced by U.S. Rep. Randy Weber (R-TX) would permanently put a stop to federal tax credits for
by Marcelo Teixeira (Reuters/NASDAQ) Brazil's state-controlled oil company Petróleo Brasileiro SA has expressed strong opposition to a government-led program to increase the use of biofuels following its recent decision to completely withdraw from the sector. In a document the energy ministry posted
by Kevin Keane (BBC Scotland) Trials have begun near Oban to create one of the UK's first seaweed farms. Harvesting of wild seaweed has been taking place for centuries but researchers say there is huge potential to create a farmed industry. Experts say
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) News this week arrived from Canada that Enerkem has received the lowest carbon intensity value ever issued by the British Columbia Ministry of Energy and Mines for its ethanol product under the Renewable and Low
(Farm Forum) ... Through Senior Capstone Design projects, the senior engineering students partner with innovators in the ag industry using the latest technology. The experience provides an opportunity to work on projects that will impact agriculture for future generations. The designs and
by Sapna Gopal (The Wire) Bio-jet fuel is generally two- to seven-times more expensive than conventional fossil-derived jet fuels but can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 60-70%. -- People in this industry are looking for ways to reduce the sector’s carbon
by Mike Lefever (The Gazette) ... Corn producers belong at the table of these discussions and have much to be proud of, in that they - along with the rest of agriculture - are continually meeting the world's demands for more food,
by Mia Breytenbach (Mining Weekly) Zambia’s largest integrated copper producer, Konkola Copper Mines (KCM), owned by global conglomerate Vedanta Resources, has launched the first project of its kind in Zambia to rehabilitate a mining site. The project, launched earlier this month,
(Neste/Globe Newswire) In the spirit of circular economics, Neste and Fazer Bakery are joining forces with their Doughnut Trick campaign. The oil that was used to fry Fazer Bakery's May Day doughnuts will be recycled by refining it to produce
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... Among the climate warriors fighting CO2 build-up, perhaps the most ambitious are those who are seeking to use CO2 to make industrial materials, fuels or chemicals — displacing the need to use oil or gas
(Bioenergy Insight) Plans to build the UK’s biggest anaerobic digestion plant have been put on hold following a series of protests and campaigns against it. FD Bird & Sons wants to build an anaerobic digestion plant near Beverley in East Yorkshire.
(NexSteppe) NexSteppe, a company dedicated to pioneering the next generation of sustainable feedstock solutions for biobased industries, announced a new partnership today with Embrapa, the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation. The partnership will focus on commercializing a promising high biomass sorghum
by Tim Sandle (Digital Journal) Are biofuels the answer to the world’s energy needs or do the problems, including diverting food crops for fuel, carry an unnecessary level of social and economic problems? If biofuels are the answer, how
(Biofuels International) Children in the UAE have been recycling cooking oil to make biofuels as part of a new initiative. The programme was set up by the Blue waste management company in Dubai, and involves pupils of all ages, from kindergarten
by Ron Alverson (Ethanol Producer Magazine/American Coalition for Ethanol) Life-cycle modeling for ethanol needs to be updated to reflect big improvements in corn's GHG emissions profile -- ... Fuels that help automakers achieve efficiency standards are going to be important. California and the
by Emmanuel Desplechin (ePURE/Ethanol Producer Magazine) ePURE's secretary general outlines the European ethanol organization's discussion points in the face of Commission proposals that would cap crop-based biofuels. -- Despite agreeing to ambitious climate and energy goals that require 18 to
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In Tennessee, officials at Oak Ridge released a report on an ongoing debate about costs and benefits of wood-pellet based bioenergy production in the southeastern United States (SE US) requires an understanding of the science
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In Canada, Air Canada just revealed its participation in the Civil Aviation Alternate Fuel Contrail and Emissions Research project, a research project led by the National Research Council of Canada to test the environmental benefits
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) From Wisconsin we have huge news from Virent, which has appointed one of Shell New Energies’ gurus, Stacey Orlandi, as Virent CEO, succeeding Lee Edwards who is headed into retirement after a distinguished 8-year run. Most recently,
by Amelia Templeton (OPB FM) For years, the sewage flushed away by Portland households has decomposed into methane gas captured by the city’s wastewater plant and turned into energy and electricity. Now, the city’s wastewater agency, the Bureau of Environmental Services, has a
(Greenbelt Resources/PR Newswire) JababECO is the first U.S.-Indonesia municipal waste-to-bioproducts project -- United States Vice President Mike Pence participated in a ceremony celebrating the signing of multiple Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) in Jakarta today, including between Greenbelt Resources Corporation (OTC:
(Center for Climate Strategies) As a part of the Africa Low Emissions Development Strategies (ALEDS) project, the Center for Climate Strategies (CCS) is supporting local self-determination and global integration by providing training, capacity building, and technical assistance to the government
(Vertimass, LLC) One of four advanced biofuels and bioproducts technology companies invited to present -- Vertimass LLC is proud to announce that it is one of four companies selected to present at the "Pitch for a Green Future" session at
by Paul C. Samboko, Mitelo Subakanya, Cliff Dlamini (United Nations University-WIDER) The need for energy security and climate change mitigation have increased blending mandates worldwide; in Southern Africa, demand for biofuels could increase following South Africa’s planned blending mandates. However, land constraints
by Chandana Banerjee (Christian Science Monitor) In 60 cities in India, 16,876 tons of plastic waste are generated each day, according to data from the country’s Central Pollution Control Board. Multiply that by 365, and you have more than 6
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) From California arrives the very interesting news that Amyris has entered into an agreement with Blue California whereby its affiliates will provide access to its fermentation manufacturing in China and provide the necessary capital to
(KTVZ.com) Bill sponsored by Sens. Tim Knopp, Ted Ferrioli -- Oregon Senate Republicans say adding woody biomass as a recognized source of green energy technologies will help reduce carbon emissions and create jobs in rural Oregon. The proposal, Senate Bill
by Colin Ley (AgFunder News) The closer you get to the commercialization of a development, the harder it becomes to raise capital, and recent government activities around the world are not making life easier for innovators, speakers at the World
(BBI International/Ethanol Producer Magazine) This February, D3MAX announced the completion and shipment of its pilot plant employing the patented D3MAX cellulosic ethanol technology. Installed at ACE Ethanol LLC, in Stanley, Wisconsin, the testing of the patented D3MAX corn fiber-to-ethanol process
by Lisa Song (The Energy Mix) In a finding that should resonate strongly for Canadian decision-makers charged with meeting the country’s climate targets, new research reveals that the carbon footprint of a litre of synthetic crude extracted from tar sands/oil
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In our March Madness series, we’ve been covering emerging markets and technological pathways – now we turn to two other key drivers, market access and carbon pricing. There are two approaches — volumetric mandates and carbon
by Daryl Worthington (Biofuels International) Indonesia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has denounced the European Parliament Resolution on Palm Oil and Deforestation of Rainforests, describing it as ‘discriminative’. In addition, the ministry claims the EU decision was based on “inaccurate and unaccountable
by Larry R. Knight* (Reciclaje Pura Vida for Advanced Biofuels USA) There are those who would argue that global warming is not occurring. While the evidence suggests otherwise, it would be political and intellectual suicide to argue that our global population
(Shell) Shell today(March 31, 2017) opened a new major technology hub in Bangalore - a 52 acre, custom built technology centre - that can house up to 1,500 experts, who would collaboratively work on worldwide innovative energy projects. The inauguration was
by Meghan Sapp (Biofuels Digest) In Canada, the long-awaited MSW-to-biofuel plant in Surrey is preparing for commissioning in June, making it North America’s first plant of such kind. Waste collection trucks and other city vehicles will be fueled with the
by Jim Lane (BiofuelsDigest) ... For any society, an even more perfect class of technology assets would allow us to move in either direction — perfect convertibility. When energy prices are low and supply is replete, but food prices are
(Ethanol Producer Magazine) Prospects for a cellulosic ethanol plant to be built as part of the Maabjerg Energy Center in Denmark have achieved a breakthrough, according Jorgen Udby, chairman. London-based investment firm Pioneer Point Partners has confirmed in a letter
by P.J. Huffstutter and Karl Plume (Reuters) ... World stockpiles of corn and wheat are at record highs. From Iowa to China, years of bumper crops and low prices have overwhelmed storage capacity for basic foodstuffs. Global stocks of corn, wheat, rice
by Andrew Flinn (Brownfield Ag News) Matt Merritt, Director of Public Relations for POET DSM says the company’s Project Liberty cellulosic ethanol facility at Emmetsburg Iowa – which started production a year ago – is already nearing production goals. “We’re already
by Chris Mooney (The Washington Post) A new large-scale technology has launched in Decatur, Illinois that, by combining together corn-based fuels with the burial of carbon dioxide deep underground, could potentially result in the active removal of greenhouse gases from the
by Bob Cleaves (Biomass Power Association/Biomass Magazine) ... Unbeknownst to many in the biomass power sector, there may be a role for biomass power producers to play in the RFS. Electric vehicles (EVs) represent an increasing share of the automotive market,
by Liz Gyekye (Bioenergy Insight) A new paper by researchers at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) describes a process that captures methane from natural gas and biogas and that uses photosynthesis to convert it into biomass feedstock. The new paper is called ‘A
(SEAT) Turning wastewater into sustainable fuel. This is the answer to two environmental challenges, namely reusing an increasingly scarce resource, water, and finding alternative energies to counter episodes of severe pollution that impose traffic restrictions in cities such as Madrid
by Lorenz Bauer (Lee Enterprises Consulting/Biofuels Digest) ... The use of biomass to produce value added chemicals for polymer synthesis is a major focus of the effort to replace fossil carbon. The theory is that these products can lead the way
by Beatriz Pupo (Platts) Brazilian sugar industry group, Unica, is seeking the introduction of an ethanol import tariff of 16%. Unica is citing in its pleas the higher greenhouse gas emissions of corn ethanol, Brazilian imports of which have surged over the
by Sam Harrington (Yale Climate Connections) Until about 10 years ago, spring wheat was a favorite crop for farmers in North Dakota. Erickson: “Beginning in 2007, when the government heavily incentivized corn production for ethanol use, corn production really reached into North
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... At its heart, it’s a company about transformation in basic food feedstocks. But where the technological imperative for years has been about, to use an example, more corn and cheaper corn — with the
(ePURE) With its revised Renewable Energy Directive (RED II) the European Commission wants to phase out all conventional biofuels in the EU. But in making its proposal the Commission has ignored many of its own guidelines for Impact Assessments, including
(European Parliament/Biomass Magazine) To counter the impact of unsustainable palm oil production such as deforestation and habitat degradation, particularly in Southeast Asia, the EU should introduce a single certification scheme for palm oil entering the EU market and phase out
by Lee Imada (Maui News) Alexander & Baldwin is close to formalizing a partnership with a seed oil producing company on a 250-acre demonstration project to produce biofuels from the pongamia tree on old sugar fields with planting possibly to
by Jessie Stolark (Energy and Environmental Study Institute) Are we using the right tools to understand land use change, particularly at the local level, and how can understanding of land use change be improved? The Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) has been around
(Allied Market Research) According to a new report published by Allied Market Research, titled, "Bioethanol Market: Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2014-2022," the global market was valued at $5,652 million in 2015, and is projected to reach $9,544 million
(GreenAir Online) Seaweed could become a promising source of biofuels for aviation if sustainably produced and economic and policy challenges can be overcome, says a report by Norwegian NGO Bellona. Seaweeds, or macroalgae, generally contain high amounts of carbohydrates (sugars)
(SAAB) Gripen has for the first time undergone a series of test flights with 100% biofuel. This demonstrates that the aircraft can be flown with an alternative fuel and gives valuable knowledge for future possible use of alternative fuel. “Demonstrating that
by Mark Peplow (Science Magazine) A cutting-edge waste-to-energy plant is taking shape in the industrial heartland of the United Kingdom. When the £60 million facility opens in May, it will be the world’s first commercial-scale plant to use enzymes and microbes
(Ecofys) Sequential cropping can be a promising model to produce additional biomass without negative impacts on land use change or food production. In a research study for the Italian Biogas Consortium (CIB), Ecofys found that agricultural crop yields can increase
by Ron Kotrba (Biodiesel Magazine) A California ethanol plant is being awarded a grant from the state energy commission to help build a biodiesel production facility on-site. Calgren Renewable Fuels, an ethanol refinery in Pixley, California—the heart of dairy country—already
by Bob Cleaves (Biomass Power Association/Biomass Magazine) More than 100 million trees across California, many located in the federally managed Sierra, Stanislaus and Sequoia National Forests, are dead, owing to a years-long drought and a nasty bark beetle infestation. As many
by William Strauss (FutureMetrics/Biomass Magazine) ... The recently released paper by the Chatham House is a study that contains many inaccurate statements about the use of wood for energy. Those statements are presented as facts, or as uncontested conclusions. This article
by Ron Kotrba (Biomass Magazine) U.S. imports of biomass-based diesel hit extreme heights in 2016, fulfilling a third of the consumption market, driving the domestic biodiesel industry to more actively seek counteracting measures to protect its own investments. --
(Alliance Bio-Products) The company's patented CTS process presents a viable option for growing biofuel production efforts with its ability to produce cellulosic ethanol at a lower cost and without harmful environmental impact -- Alliance Bio-Products, Inc. (Bio-Products), a subsidiary of
(NetralNews.com) Plans to mass-produce jet fuel from restaurants' waste kitchen oil will come a step closer in China next year when a major state-owned refiner begins construction of a full-scale production plant. Zhenhai Refining and Chemical, a Sinopec subsidiary based in
(Advanced Biofuel Center/AltEnergyMag.com) ... The Advanced Biofuel Center (ABC) recently announced progress on its work with its mission "more Biodiesel oil per hectare" by developing two or more dedicated Biodiesel Crops in same acreage and that without extra inputs. According to
(European Parliament News) The EU should tackle the environmental impacts of unsustainable palm oil production, such as deforestation and habitat degradation, particularly in South-East Asia, says a non-binding report to be put to a vote on Tuesday. Members advocate phasing
(Ehihad Airways) Peter Baumgartner, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, and Mohammad Al Bulooki, Executive Vice President Commercial, joined Scott Fancher, Boeing Senior Vice President, at the integrated seawater and agriculture system facility within Masdar City to check on the
edited by John Love and John A. Bryant (Wiley-Blackwell) With increased public and scientific attention driven by factors such as oil price spikes, the need for increased energy security, and concerns over greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuels, the production
(Taurus Energy) Quad County Corn Processors, Galva, Iowa, Lallemand Biofuels & Distilled Spirits and Taurus Energy has agreed to evaluate XyloFerm in the Cellerate™ process on industrial scale. After preliminary lab-scale trials of XyloFerm in the Cellerate™ process and obtained GRAS
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Clariant’s sunliquid technology for the conversion of lignocellulosic biomass into sugars, followed by fermentation to cellulosic ethanol, is flexible to be used to convert different feedstocks on a regional basis, for example corn stover in
by Meghan Sapp (Biofuels Digest) In India, the Indian Oil Company is seeking 50 acres from the Haryana State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation to build its planned second-generation ethanol plant near to its oil refinery currently located in Panipat.
by Neil Kohler (MagicValley.com/Pacific Ethanol) In his March 26 letter, Mr. Chamberlain went from 100 percent right to 100 percent wrong in just a few short words. As he correctly noted, refiners should not be permitted to rewrite the Renewable
(Ethanol Producer Magazine) The Urban Air Initiative is calling the results of a new Coordinating Research Council emissions study “one more example of the biased and flawed testing procedures used to penalize ethanol.” The ethanol advocacy group said Wednesday CRC’s match
(AkzoNobel) A new online tool which can track the use of bio-based raw materials in products has been launched as a pilot by project partners AkzoNobel, Advanced Biochemical (Thailand) Co., Ltd. (ABT) and EY. It will be the first tool
by Chris Clayton (DTN The Progressive Farmer) Leaders Tout Potential Growth, Challenges for Renewable Refinery Products -- ... Whether it is spoons, Coke bottles or carpets made out of corn, livestock enzymes for pharmaceuticals, or John Deere tractors using soy oil
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