by Jonathan H Harsch (Agri-Pulse) ... At the heart of the battle is whether it makes sense to transition from fossil fuels to renewables like biofuels, wind, and solar energy. At issue is the choice between steering new investment into renewables as
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
by Kylie Veleta (Inside Indiana Business) Under the tutelage of a major engine manufacturer, the Indianapolis Zoo is now converting leftover cooking oil into biofuel to power its maintenance vehicles. Cummins engineers built the on-site system, spearheaded the science and guided
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Sofinnova. If you’ve been raising capital in the renewable chemical space you’ve probably knocked on their door. And, like a box of British candy, found a bunch of Smarties within. How do they look at
by Michael Le Page (New Scientist) A small pilot project in Iceland has shown that carbon dioxide can be safely stored in basalt rocks. The finding could help tackle climate change, especially in countries such as India that have lots of basalt
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) The Blundermeisters of Media Misinformation are at it again. The world’s favorite advanced biofuel, biodiesel, gets another hit job from mainstream media. The Digest investigates. -- AFP, the major international news service, reported last week that
by Vonnie Estes (AgFunderNews) With the need to produce more food using fewer inputs, agriculture is seeking new products, practices and technologies. As a planet we must use fewer chemicals and less water. Subsistence farmers need to close the yield
(University of Sydney) International paper waste and plastic recycling contracts signed for ground-breaking Australian technology. -- It’s been a busy few days for Australian start-up Licella, whose innovative technology, developed in partnership with the University of Sydney, is the subject
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In California, a new global initiative called below50 has debuted, backed by the World Business Council for Sustainable Development, Roundtable for Sustainable Biomaterials and Sustainable Energy for All to promote the best-of-breed of sustainable fuels that
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) For the advanced bioeconomy, the question remains and will remain for some time, where are the gallons? Specifically, projects that use biobased feedstocks that can be converted into renewable fuels, chemicals, advanced foods, and biobased materials. Projects
(VoteWojcik) Renewable-Based Fuel is Cleaner, Costs Less Than Traditional Diesel -- On June 1st, Rochester Public Transit (RPT) switched from the 10 percent biodiesel blend required statewide to a 20 percent blend, a move that will reduce emissions from 49 transit
by David Roberts (Vox) ... However, some uses of energy are not easy to electrify in the short term, maybe even in the long term. They rely on energy-dense liquid fuels. So if we're ever going to get to net zero emissions,
(Michigan State University/AgProfessional.com) ... The study, conducted by the Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center and Michigan State University, found that using nitrogen fertilizer on switchgrass crops sharply increases the amount of nitrous oxide emitted. Switchgrass has been heralded as a significant
(Q13Fox.com) Alaska airlines made aviation history today, when it flew two planes partially fueled by “biofuel” made from fermented corn. The airline fueled up two jets at Sea-Tac Airport. One headed south, to San Francisco, the other east, to Washington, DC. “We aren’t
(Test Magazine (Google Translation)) Over 62 thousand tons of waste vegetable oil collected in 2015, an increase of 44% compared to 2010, 85% of which were initiated in regeneration for the production of biodiesel. Are some of the data emerging
(iProfessional (Goggle Translation) In recent months, the oil price rose 30%. This rekindled the debate about the impact of this alternative fuel prices and food supply. Experts explain how this industry can help foster a cycle of "virtuous growth" in
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In April, we reported that Comet Biorefining has signed an off-take agreement with bio-succinic acid producer BioAmber for cellulosic dextrose from Comet’s upcoming first commercial plant in Sarnia, Ontario. The dextrose will be produced from agricultural
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... The headline from the event is that projects and feedstock providers are more engaged than we have seen previously — a wave of technology development that once took place with a “we’ll work out
by Mike Lefever (Post Independent/Citizen Telegram) ... In the end, though, I hope your take away is the same as mine; there’s a place at the pump for ethanol, petroleum and other fuels. We just don’t want ethanol to lose its place
by Katie Fletcher (Biomass Magazine) A recent report entitled “The Real Economic Benefit of Separate Biowaste Collections” released by U.K.-based Renewable Energy Association shows that food waste collected separately in a majority of situations can reduce costs for businesses and
by Katie Fletcher (Biomass Magazine) Seattle-based Impact Bioenergy, a small startup focused on distributed energy with its portable, prefabricated anaerobic digestion (AD) technology, deployed its first microdigester at the Fremont Brewery Co. in Seattle this April. The company manufactures and sells
by Anna Simet (Biomass Magazine) Ontario’s government plans to spend up to $100 million over the next four years to foster growth of renewable natural gas (RNG) in the province. On May 26, the Ontario Ministry of Environment and Climate Change
by Marcius Extavour and Paul Bunje (XPRIZE/Biofuels Digest) ... Under the right conditions, biofuels and biomass-based energy systems can be sustainable, modular, scalable, carbon neutral, or even carbon negative. This has been known for some time, as have the risks of
(Algae Industry Magazine) Rochester Institute of Technology and Synergy Biogas are exploring the environmental benefits of microalgae to clean agricultural wastewater and make biofuels. Jeff Lodge, associate professor in RIT’s Thomas Gosnell School of Life Sciences, is running the three-month
by Jennifer Blackburn (United Sorghum Checkoff Program/MyPlainView.com) The Sorghum Checkoff announced Thursday a $500,000 investment in sorghum research, made at the inaugural Transportation Energy Resources from Renewable Agriculture (TERRA) program field day at the University of Arizona's Maricopa Agricultural Center in
(Biofuels International) UK import and consumption of palm oil-based biodiesel has fallen dramatically, and currently stands at zero, according to statistics from the UK’s Department for Transport. The government department has recently published statistics on the UK’s biodiesel industry, analysing the
by Megan Greenwalt (Waste 360) With municipalities increasingly collecting organic waste, finding ways to convert that waste into clean energy is a hot topic in the solid waste industry. A multitude of techniques are in use or being developed, including aerobic and anaerobic
by Ilari Kauppila (Biofuels International) Finnish fuel producer Neste is set to start a trial project to turn used cooking oil (UCO) into biodiesel at its biorefinery in Finland. The trial, to be held at the company’s Kilpilahti refinery in Porvoo
(Queens Gazette) City Council Member Costa Constantinides, joined by environmental groups and others, rallied in support of his bill INT. 642 on May 25. The legislation would ensure more sustainable energy consumption by increasing the use of biodiesel in home
(Transport & Environment) ... In 2014, 45% of all the palm oil used in Europe ended up in the tanks of cars and trucks, data from EU vegetable oil industry association Fediol and obtained by green group Transport & Environment has
by Gerald Kutney (Lee Consulting/Biofuels Digest) ... From the time of the caveman until the early Industrial Revolution, biofuels – namely wood and the advanced biofuel of the day, charcoal – reigned supreme. Both fossil fuels and biofuels originate from biomass. The
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) These days, Cathay Pacific trades under the slogan “Life Well Travelled” and the delivery of the first of 48 super-modern, super-quiet, super-chic Airbus 350-900s is another milestone for that branding — but it might as
by Joanna Schroeder (Energy AgWired) Trestle Energy and Larksen are partnering to commercialize a new Fuel Pathway Management Platform using biomass pellets. The platform would enable ethanol producers to reduce their fuel carbon intensity by powering their plant with biomass
by Brooks Hays (UPI) Researchers in South Korea have turned a bathroom into a laboratory for sustainable energy. They're turning human waste into biofuel. The experimental bathroom features a waterless toilet system that breaks down human waste into a dehydrated and
(Minnesota Bio-Fuels Association) Ethanol is often talked about as a high-octane fuel. But not everyone has a clear understanding of octane and how it affects the performance of their cars. So let's start right at the beginning : what is
(Urban Air Initiative/Ethanol Producer Magazine) In comments recently filed with the California Air Resources Board, the Urban Air Initiative made a compelling case for higher octane, lower carbon fuels like midlevel ethanol blends to help the state meet its carbon
by Nancy Hicks (Lincoln Journal Star) The city’s public works staff members have a picture they like to point to when explaining their latest project. It shows city bus riders in the UK -- sitting on toilets. It’s a fun, visual
by Committee on Propulsion and Energy Systems to Reduce Commercial Aviation Carbon Emissions; Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board; Division on Engineering and Physical Sciences; National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (National Academies Press) The primary human activities that release carbon
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Licella produces drop-in biofuels from a wide range of biomass and uses a supercritical water-based technology and catalysts to break up biomass and reform it into a drop-in fuel hydrocarbon. The compelling features of supercritical are
(University of Adelaide/Newswise) A weedy plant found on the roadside in northern Australia has stems ripe for biofuel production. -- Scientists from the ARC Centre of Excellence in Plant Cell Walls at the University of Adelaide have discovered that a
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Licella and Canfor will form a joint-venture under the name “Licella Pulp Joint Venture” to integrate Licella’s unique Catalytic Hydrothermal Reactor upgrading platform into Canfor Pulp’s kraft and mechanical pulp mills to economically convert biomass,
by Senator Timothy Wirth and C. Boyden Gray (Yale Environment 360) The criticism of ethanol by environmentalists is misguided and just plain wrong. In fact, thanks to improvements in farming techniques, increasing the amount of corn ethanol in U.S. gasoline
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) Administrator Val Dolcini today announced that incentives resume this month for farmers and foresters who grow and harvest biomass for renewable energy and biobased products. The funds
(US Department of Agriculture) Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced today that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investing $8.8 million to boost the production of advanced biofuels and sustain jobs at renewable energy facilities in 39 states. USDA continues
(Commercial Aviation Alternative Fuels Initiative) We are proud to announce the 10th Anniversary of the initiation of the Commercial Aviation Alternative Fuels Initiative (CAAFI) as of May 24, 2016, and more importantly, to reflect on the success we’ve achieved to date,
by Pallab Ghosh (BBC) The ban on GM crops by European countries should be reassessed, the president of UK science body the Royal Society says. -- Prof Venki Ramakrishnan said the science of genetic modification had been misunderstood by the public
by David Biello (Scientific American) Your battery-powered vehicle is only as green as your electricity supplier -- ... Tesla has advertised its vehicles as having zero emissions, helping fuel the mania for the fun-driving sedan, but that's not necessarily true. Although the
by David Biello (Scientific American) ... Burning cellulosic ethanol as a fuel could result in just 10 percent of the CO2 emissions produced by burning gasoline. One big secret to making it all work is the advanced biofuel refinery's location right next
(Daily Bruin) UCLA has sustained interest in reducing waste over the years, but it might have lost its interest in innovation. While the 45 tons of food waste and biodegradable packaging its dining halls produce every month are all composted, UCLA has
(BIODICO/Ethanol Producer Magazine) California’s biofuel industry is calling on state legislators to allocate $210 million in the Governor’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund to incentivize in-state production of low carbon biofuels. For the first time, biodiesel, ethanol and biomethane trade associations
(Phys.Org) As Iowa farmers have planted more acres of corn to meet the demand driven by the corn-based ethanol industry, many models predicted that nitrate concentrations in Iowa streams would increase accordingly. However, recent IIHR research based on water monitoring
by Don Scott (National Biodiesel Board/Biofuels Digest) EPA proposes to continue growing the Required Volume Obligations (RVO) for Biomass Based Diesel (BBD) under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), but at a paltry 100 million gallons a year to 2.1 billion gallons
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Joule is advancing a production platform for Liquid Fuel from the Sun, expected to eclipse the scale, productivity and cost efficiency of any known alternative to fossil fuel today. Its transformative Helioculture platform directly and
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) India’s SunLight Fuels licenses IH2 Technology for hydrocarbon transportation fuels from agricultural waste -- In India, Sunlight Fuels has signed a Front End Loading license agreement for IH2 Technology with CRI Catalyst, a division of
by James Cogan (Biofuels Digest/Ethanol Europe Renewables Ltd.) ... The European Commission in Brussels is right now putting the finishing touches to a Communication on Transport Decarbonisation, due out this summer. ... There is a risk the Communication may support fossil
(Center for International Environmental Law) This is a story about how the world’s most powerful industry used science, communications, and consumer psychology to shape the public debate over climate change. And it begins earlier—decades earlier—than anyone suspected. Explore our documents and
(National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine) Distinction Between Genetic Engineering and Conventional Plant Breeding Becoming Less Clear, Says New Report on GE Crops -- An extensive study by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine has found that
by Kelly Marshall (Precision Ag Wired) The National Academy of Sciences has released (yet another) reportreaffirming the safety and benefits of GMO crops. Not surprisingly this report has lead to a flurry of reactions across multiple social media platforms, both positive
(IEA Implementing Agreement for Renewable Energy Technology Deployment) The integration of advanced (2nd generation / 2G) biofuel plants with conventional (1st generation / 1G) biofuel plants can lead to significant synergies and cost savings, especially for bioethanol plants. For biodiesel,
by Tomas Ekbom (Task 39 May 2016 Newsletter) The production and use of biofuels in Sweden have increased substantially since the mid-2000s. According to preliminary statistics from SPBI, the share of renewable energy in the road sector was 14.7% in 2015
(Algae Biomass Organization) Algae has the potential to make a large impact as an ingredient in animal feed, according to Xingen Lei, professor of molecular nutrition at Cornell University. Lei, who has been studying algae’s nutritional benefits for years, is
(U.S. Grains Council) The U.S. Grains Council (USGC) and its industry partners sought to dispel myths about U.S. ethanol and open the door for the renewable fuel in the Japanese market this week at a workshop held in Tokyo for
by Chris D'Angelo (The Huffington Post) New documents show the industry chose to prioritize costs over the planet. In 1963, Esso (now Exxon Mobil) patented a design for a “novel and highly efficient electrode“ for use in fuel cells —
(Clariant/Ethanol Producer Magazine) Clariant, a world leader in specialty chemicals, and Scania, one of the world's top heavy-duty vehicle manufacturers, are celebrating the results and the opportunities generated by the partnership established last year, which involved an investment in sustainable
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In March, United Airlines made history by becoming the first U.S. airline to begin use of commercial-scale volumes of sustainable aviation biofuel for regularly scheduled flights with the departure of United Flight 708 from Los Angeles International
(National Biodiesel Board/Biodiesel Magazine) “Powered by Biodiesel” decals adorn Florida Power & Light Co.’s diesel vehicles as they traverse Florida and beyond. The signage highlights the key role this advanced biofuel is playing in the company’s sustainability strategy. “FPL operates one
(ACS Green Chemistry Institute) Global Bioenergies is one of the few companies in the world and the only one in Europe to develop a process to convert renewable resources into hydrocarbons through fermentation. The company has focused initially on the
by Keith Alverson (Argus Leader) As a sixth-generation corn farmer in South Dakota, and one who is deeply involved in sustainability programs in U.S. agriculture, I have learned first-hand how biofuels such as ethanol are good for our health and environment,
by John M. Urbanchuk (The Intelligencer) I am writing in response to Andrew Mikula's May 13 letter ("With oil now plentiful, why the need for ethanol in gasoline?"). Several points come to mind. Ethanol has several characteristics that make it an ideal
(Biofuels International) Dutch chemicals giant AkzoNobel and agro-industrial cooperative Royal Cosun have formed a new partnership to develop novel products from cellulose side streams resulting from sugar beet processing. The partnership will combine Royal Cosun's specialist knowledge in separating and purifying
(NewsWise/University of Guelph) An almost entirely accidental discovery by University of Guelph researchers could transform food and biofuel production and increase carbon capture on farmland. By tweaking a plant’s genetic profile, the researchers doubled the plant’s growth and increased seed production
(Biofuels International) Alkol Biotech, a UK-based biofuels research specialist, has announced that it has sold 500 kilos of EUnergyCane’s sugarcane bagasse for scientific cellulosic ethanol technology testing. The EUnergyCane consortium is a group of companies, universities, and government entities directly involved
by Kassidi Andres (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Mike Bryan is introducing Australia to a DDGS-based feed product made by a company headquartered in North Dakota, where his ethanol career began. -- ... Today, living on the east coast of Australia in
(National Biodiesel Board/PR NewsWire) World's experts advance the science of quantifying transportation emissions -- Scientific experts agree that America's Advanced Biofuel, biodiesel, holds significant promise in the effort to reduce carbon emissions. Last year, biodiesel use in the U.S. cut
(California Ethanol & Power) Today California Ethanol & Power, LLC (CE&P) announced the updated carbon intensity (CI) for its anticipated sugarcane and sweet sorghum ethanol. On May 9, 2016, California’s Air Resources Board (CARB) under the state’s Low Carbon Fuel
(Bioenergy Insight) Canadian ethanol producer Calgren Renewable Fuels has invested in key co-products to sell in addition to its 58 million gpy ethanol output. The Calgren plant, located in Pixley, California, was the state’s first when it was built in 2009. Today,
by Liz Gyekye (Bioenergy Insight) Bellona Europe, a non-profit green organisation, has called on the European Commission to promote marine bioenergy for heat and power and biofuels. The group made the call in its response to the EC’s consultation on a
by Steve Hanley (Gas2.org) ... Arthur Kay is an architect by training. While designing a new coffee shop one day, he learned that England creates more than half a million tons of coffee grounds every year. Surely they were good for
by Charlie Niebling (Biomass Magazine/Innovative Natural Resource Solutions LLC) ... I, for one, endorse the notion that if America’s forests are stable or growing, when viewed in total, then American use of wood biomass to make energy is by definition
by Jules Scully (Western Telegraph) The potential of using algae as biofuel is being examined on the Haven waterway. Marine biologists from Swansea University have installed a new seaweed farm in Pembroke Dock to look into the possibilities. The project, funded by the
by Michael McIntire (Northwest Indiana Times) ... Family Express, a favorite local company, is installing new fuel pumps across eight counties with help from the Indiana Corn Marketing Council and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Drivers will have the option to fuel
by Bliss Baker (Ethanol Producer Magazine/Global Renewable Fuels Alliance) ... It is estimated that the transportation sector produces 25 to 30 percent of the world’s GHG emissions, making it a key focus for policies aimed at reducing global emissions. If serious
by Josh Pedrick (Platts) Most "legacy" ethanol producers who sell their product in California are unhappy with updated "carbon intensity" scores, saying the application process was inconsistent and left scores too high to meet the state's Low Carbon Fuel Standard. Legacy
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
by Nika Knight (CommonDreams.org) 'This spill shows why there is a new and vibrant movement in the Gulf of Mexico for no new drilling' -- Royal Dutch Shell's offshore drilling operations were pouring oil into the Gulf of Mexico on
by Keith Goldberg (Law 360) The U.S. Supreme Court refused Monday to review a $236 million trial judgment against ExxonMobil Corp. in a groundwater contamination case in New Hampshire, leaving in place a verdict the energy giant claims is a violation
(Union of Concerned Scientists) Tight oil is a major source of global warming emissions. Better regulations—and an industry held accountable for its actions—would help. ... Methane is trapped in the same rock deposits as tight oil and is also freed by fracking.
by Kelly Moffitt (St. Louis Public Radio) ... Toni Kutchan, Vice President for Research at Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, said that sorghum, Camelina sativa and pennycress are non-agricultural crops that researchers are harvesting for oil and biomass to use for
(Stop & Shop Supermarket Company LLC/Biomass Magazine) The Stop & Shop Supermarket Company LLC celebrated the opening of its green energy facility in Freetown, Massachusetts, on April 15, just in time for Earth Day. The innovative facility will convert inedible
by Ilan Solomons (Mining Weekly) Local green technology company G-Tech has recorded early success in its attempt to grow biofuel and other bioenergy feedstock to produce bioethanol and biodiesel as part of a mine dump rehabilitation pilot project in Randfontein,
by Kevin L. Raye (Bangor Daily News/Down East Strategies) Yet our forestry sector is in serious trouble, as mill closures and job losses reverberate through Maine’s economy. The urgency of finding innovative new uses and new markets to maximize the
(The Auto Channel) In a major commercial breakthrough, Scania will in June start delivering 51 hybridised Scania Citywide buses to Madrid. These complete buses feature cost saving and emission educing hybrid technology that meets the EU suburban and short distance
by Sarah Nightingale (University of California Riverside) Charles Wyman, Distinguished Professor in Chemical and Environmental Engineering and holder of the Ford Motor Company Chair in Environmental Engineering at the Center for Environmental Research and Technology (CE-CERT), and Charles Cai, research engineer
by Anmar Frangoul (CNBC.com) ... The DOE added that the U.S. is currently spending around $1 billion every three days on "imported oil." ... The importance of biofuels is only set to increase. A 2011 report from the IEA projects
by Jonathan Male (U.S. Department of Energy) The critical need to reduce the nation's dependence on foreign oil and cut greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector has prompted great interest in the advancement of clean energy technologies. The President’s
(25 x '25) ... While recognition of the role of agriculture in meeting climate change challenges is growing among world leaders, it is of concern that biofuels and the low-carbon benefits they provide, especially when compared to fossil-based fuels like gasoline
(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
by Darryl Fears (The Washington Post) But a study by the U.S. Geological Survey appears to have answered a critical question about the millions of gallons of chemical-laced water that are injected into the wells to fracture rocks and release trapped
by Robert Sanders (UC Berkeley/Ethanol Producer Magazine) A new analysis of the genetic diversity of cassava will help improve strategies for breeding disease resistance and climate tolerance into the root crop, a staple and major source of calories for a
(ZeeNews.India) ... Citing an expert committee report on fuels, the state government today told the Gujarat High Court that CNG will prove more harmful to the environment than diesel "as CNG engines emit more greenhouse gases than diesel". In its affidavit filed
(Diesel Technology Forum) Ten years after the introduction of ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel in 2006, the Diesel Technology Forum recognizes the role of the shift to cleaner diesel fuel and its importance in the major environmental accomplishments being celebrated during
(Environmental and Energy Study Institute) ... To achieve CAFE for the light duty fleet – there is no one-sized fits all solution. Considering each potential CAFE compliance pathway alone -- biofuels, improvements in fuel efficiency and electrification -- won’t realistically allow
by Eric Wolff (Politico's Morning Energy 5/12/2016) Straightening ME out on Section 526: The defense appropriation draft defunds any implementation of Section 526 of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007. Section 526, as it turns out, says that
by Dibie Ike Michael (AfricaNews) ... Malawian motorists are now enjoying cheaper, greener alternative ethanol-fueled cars amid economic hardships in the country. Malawi launched a renewable fuels programme in 2015 as part of the government’s efforts to reduce the country’s dependence on foreign
(European Biomass Association) AEBIOM answer to the European Commission Public Consultation - A sustainable bioenergy policy for the period after 2020 -- The European Biomass Association (AEBIOM) welcomes the initiative of the European Commission to define a sustainable EU bioenergy policy for the
(Air Transport Action Group) A High Level Meeting being convened by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) on 11 May received executive-level support from the aviation industry today, as leaders representing all parts of the sector encouraged governments to progress
by Claire Benjamin (University of Illinois) ... The University of Illinois and the University of Florida have been awarded a third round of funding from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) to realize ultra-productive biofuel crops. ... Nearly $300,000 of
by Christian Ridley (The Epoch Times) Algal biofuels are in trouble. This alternative fuel source could help reduce overall carbon emissions without taking land from food production, like many crop-based biofuels do. But several major companies including Shell and ExxonMobil are seemingly
(Fuels America/The Auto Channel) Certified mechanics, engine performance experts, and professional fishermen are briefing lawmakers on Capitol Hill today about the importance of ethanol in protecting the environment, preserving America’s energy security, and providing a high-octane boost to marine engines.
(European Commission Joint Research Center) A recent JRC report finds that fuels like liquefied natural gas (LNG) and methanol are the most promising alternatives to drive decarbonisation of the shipping sector and ultimately contribute to the fight against climate change.
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) What’s up at the DOE’s Energy Efficiency and Renewables unit ? Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Reuben Sarkar answered the question in this update, given at the Biomass R&D Technical Advisory Committee meeting. In this
(Yahoo! Finance/Air Canada) Air Canada today announced Canada's Biojet Supply Chain Initiative (CBSCI) will be held at Montréal-Trudeau Airport. It is a three-year collaborative project with 14 stakeholder organizations to introduce 400,000 litres of sustainable aviation biofuel (biojet) into a
by Ian O'Hara, Sagadevan Mundree (Wiley) Sugarcane has garnered much interest for its potential as a viable renewable energy crop. While the use of sugar juice for ethanol production has been in practice for years, a new focus on using
by Terry Anderson (Lee Agri-Media/Iowa Farmer Today) Great market opportunities exist for the ethanol industry, Doug Durante said as he opened the Ethanol 2016: Emerging Issues Forum April 28. “We can help the auto industry meet their requirements,” he said. “They provide
by Dick Roche (EurActiv) The European Commission’s proposal to scrap the mandate for the use of biofuels and, in effect, to ‘kiss biofuels goodbye,’ is a catastrophic policy based largely on arguments that have no solid foundation, writes Dick Roche. ... Initially, biofuels
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... Is the worst waste actually the most toxic and odious waste, like nuclear? Or, rather, the one that tempts us to base our civilization on an energy version of a Ponzi scheme? So, what’s the remedy
(Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials) RSB is now offering a range of advisory services to support businesses, investors, development agencies, NGOs, and governments in applying the RSB standard to their operations, projects and policy development. Through technical and strategic advice, hands-on
(Diesel Technology Forum) Efforts to develop and “commercialize” emerging technologies in the time horizons considered may not provide substantial air quality benefits if these technologies do not find their way into the fleet in substantial numbers. ... Whether it is electric cars
by Frédéric Simon (EurActiv) EU laws requiring member states to use “at least 10%” renewable energy in transport will be scrapped after 2020, the European Commission confirmed, hoping to set aside a protracted controversy surrounding the environmental damage caused by biofuels. The
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Out of the unlikely bioeconomy hub of West Palm Beach, Florida, Alliance BioEnergy Plus has revealed what it describes as the “successful completion of its yearlong efforts to optimize its patented CTS technology to extract
by Lais F. Thomaz* (Advanced Biofuels USA) From 25 to 27 April 2016, renowned experts, entrepreneurs and government officials were reunited at the "12 th Sugar & Ethanol Brazil," conference organized by F.O. Lichts. In this event, workshops were held
by Ron Kotrba (Biodiesel Magazine) A provocative opinion piece on Europe's reliance on unsound indirect land use change theory -- It is clear there is a politicized agenda in Europe to undermine sustainable, liquid biofuels such as biodiesel and forge
by Rosalie Marion Bliss (US Department of Agriculture Agricultural Research Service) ... Now, Agricultural Research Service (ARS) scientists have advanced a process to produce crude liquid fuel called “bio-oil” from agricultural waste. The bio-oil is produced by a process called
by Ernie Shea (25 x '25) Today starts a two-day “Climate Action 2016” summit in Washington that will bring together government, business and environmental leaders from around the globe “to strengthen the multi-stakeholder approach to climate implementation.” In other words, it’s a
by Katie Heger (Farm & Ranch Guide) ... It is just so cliché and doesn’t nearly cover all that agriculture is about. On our family farm, we do so much more than feed the world. Now, let me explain. Yes, my farm
(Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials) RSB invites the public to contribute to the revision of the RSB Standard for end-of-life products, by-products and residues which defines how operators may use these feedstocks for biofuel or biomaterial production. This RSB Standard covers specific terminology relevant for
by Ron Kotrba (Biomass Magazine) Near Manchester, United Kingdom, Dong Energy is constructing the first biogas plant using its REnescience technology that treats unsorted household waste with enzymes. Early this year, construction began on a unique plant at a 100-plus-year-old brownfield
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) NexSteppe is dedicated to pioneering the next generation of scalable, reliable, cost-effective feedstock solutions for the biofuels, biopower and biobased products industries. Using advanced breeding techniques and cutting-edge analytical technologies, NexSteppe is developing Malibu sweet
by Everett Eustance, Joshua T. Wray, Shahrzad Badvipour and Milton R Sommerfeld (Arizona Center for Algae Technology and Innovation, Arizona State University/Algae Industry Magazine) Algaculture, or algae farming, like any form of agriculture, is highly sensitive to fertilizer costs. A
by Brent Erickson (Biotechnology Innovation Organization/The Washington Post) Letter to Editor: Regarding the April 29 editorial “Burning wood is not the answer to climate change”: Biomass is a renewable energy resource. Congress is appropriately exercising its oversight authority in directing federal agencies
(Biofuels International) Car giant Volkswagen (VW) has published a new study and called for the promotion of biofuel-powered cars over electric ones to help tackle carbon emissions. The report, entitled Integrated Fuels and Vehicles Roadmap 2030 and Beyond, and was commissioned
by Meghan Sapp (Biofuels Digest) In Belgium, the European Commission has sent to Portugal a reasoned opinion urging the Member State to ensure the full compliance of its biofuel legislation with the Renewable Energy Directive. The Directive sets the objective
(POET) Project LIBERTY in Emmetsburg, Iowa, has produced and shipped several tank cars of cellulosic ethanol even as the plant is ramping up to its full 20 million gallon-per-year capacity. Last year’s startup phase yielded great experience that will benefit
FutureMetrics has a new whitepaper. A recent Washington Post editorial about using wood for energy was poorly informed. It was based on a letter sent to Congress by 65 “experts”. FutureMetrics’ new white paper is, “The Washington Post and 65
(NewBIO/Cooperative Extension System) Technology patented by Renmatix enables the manufacture of industrial sugars from biomass on a scale that is commercially cost-effective. Table of Contents Introduction From Biomass to Sugars Benefits of Supercritical Water Customers Rebuild Biorefiners based on Plantrose™ Process
by Timothy J. Rudnicki, Esq (Minnesota Bio-Fuels Association) ... Consider, for example, that approximately a third of annual GHG emissions emanate from the transportation sector which still relies heavily on carbon-intensive petroleum. Last year, some 17.5 million new vehicles were sold
(James Cook University) A native freshwater algae grown in northern Australia can be used to create a high-quality, renewable jet fuel, an international research team has found. The multi-disciplinary team including researchers from James Cook University, University of Sydney and Israel’s
by Meghan Sapp (Biofuels Digest) In Belgium, Volkswagen has teamed with Shell on a new report by Roland Berger promoting a policy path forward towards a European transport market that achieves environmental and GHG goals set at the COP21 meeting
(Environmental and Energy Study Institute) ... In the sweeping measure that was overall non-controversial, one provision in particular has some environmental groups in apoplexy – the categorization of biomass as carbon neutral. ... Passed by voice vote in February and advanced by
(PHYCO2/Biomass Magazine) PHYCO2, an emerging algae growth and carbon dioxide sequestration company, has made a technology breakthrough in Phase I of the multi-year trial with Michigan State University. The technology partnership set out to capture man-made carbon dioxide (a greenhouse
by Erin Voegele (Biomass Magazine) The Renewable Fuels Association has released an analysis of recently published data on California’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard, noting grain-based ethanol provided nearly half of the greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions achieved under the first five
(Development Diaries) Acumen, the nonprofit social venture fund, announces its new investment in Green Energy & BioFuels (GEB), a Nigerian company creating cleaner, more cost-effective cooking solutions for West Africa’s low-income households. In Nigeria, more than 40 percent of urban
(U.S. Department of Energy) Bioenergy Technologies Office, in partnership with the Vehicle Technologies Office and DOE national laboratories, hosted a stakeholder listening day last June to concurrently investigate the optimization of fuels and vehicles. Formerly called “Optima,” this work is now
(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,
by Chelsea Harvey (The Washington Post) Scientists say they have made a startling discovery about the link between domestic oil and gas development and the world’s levels of atmospheric ethane — a carbon compound that can both damage air quality and contribute
by John Andersen (Townsville Bulletin) ... The Pentland Bio-Energy Project has been sidelined by the State Government’s draconian new Vegetation Management Reinstatement Legislation Bill. Land clearing around the State has been stopped pending a vote on the Bill later this year. Stage
(Digital Journal/Marketwired/Earth Gen-BioFuel) Earth Gen-BioFuel (OTC PINK: EGBB), "EarthGen" or "the Company," today announced that it has finalized plans for expanding castor bean operations in Laos. George Shen, Chairman, commented, "Castor beans, a key ingredient in over 700 manufactured products and
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) ... “It is beyond baffling that biofuels or the RFS were not included in the U.S.’ plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” said RFA President and CEO Bob Dinneen. “The U.S. should be proud that
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Lux Research projects that the emergence of low-carbon fuels and vehicle efficiency will cut emissions by 29% in 2030 compared to a business as usual scenario, with biofuels and natural gas vehicles together accounting for
by Joanna Schroeder (DomesticFuel.com) According to Syngenta, the combination of Cellerate process technology with Enogen can increase ethanol production by 20 percent. The 18 day trial was conducted at the Quad County Corn Processors (QCCP) plant. Since going online, the
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