(Abengoa/GlobeNewswire) U.S. Secretary of Energy Dr. Ernest Moniz, Kansas Governor Sam Brownback and Kansas Senator Pat Roberts offer remarks during on-site event commemorating landmark occasion for advanced biofuels industry. Abengoa's proprietary enzymatic hydrolysis technology turns crop residue (stalks, stems and leaves)
by Kelly April Tyrrell (University of Wisconsin-Madison) In Wisconsin, bioenergy is for the birds. Really. In a study published today in the journal PLOS ONE, University of Wisconsin-Madison and Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) scientists examined whether corn and
by Caitlin Kennedy (Biotech NOW) National Geographic’s October issue contains an in-depth article, “The Next Green Revolution” on how plant biotechnology will be one part of a multifaceted solution to feeding a rapidly growing population in the face of climate change. Climate change and population
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Macedonian government joins as signatory for MOU. 100 million liter cellulosic refinery could start construction in 2016. ... (N)ews arrives from Skopje, Macedonia that the Republic of Macedonia today joined a MOU to facilitate the development of
(U.S. Environmental Protection Agency) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is recognizing landmark green chemistry technologies developed by industrial pioneers and leading scientists that turn climate risk into business opportunities, spurring innovation and economic development. “From academia to business, we congratulate
by Seth Borenstein (AP/SFGate.com) Cheap and plentiful natural gas isn't quite a bridge to a brighter energy future as claimed and won't slow global warming, a new study projects. Abundant natural gas in the United States has been displacing coal,
(East Lothian Courier) A Study involving seaweed washed up at Dunbar has been delayed – due to a lack of seaweed! Earlier this year, it was announced a project could be created to use the seaweed from the town’s East
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) A blogger levels an explosive set of charges at LanzaTech: “Khosla’s latest gangrene venture”, “thermodynamic junk”, “gangrene fake company”. Alleges that US Secretaries of Energy Moniz, Chu and Bodman were “bought out by special interests”.
(Science 20) The yeast has not been gene modified by the researchers; rather, they have used adaptive laboratory evolution to produce it. The method allows new characteristics to be produced without knowing which mutations are required to achieve them. Three yeast
by Isabel Lane (Biofuels Digest) In California, the Low Carbon Fuels Coalition will be launching to obtain continuous funding for the low carbon fuels industry through California legislation until 2016. The target legislation would establish multiple programs including rotating loans, funding
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) USDA issues $91M loan guarantee conditional commit to Cool Planet. Obama Administration back building of the company’s first commercial plant in Louisiana, as it opens its first commercial-scale Cool Terra operation in California. In California, Cool
(ePURE/Ethanol Producer Magazine) Brussels--On the occasion of a high-level Policy Conference in Brussels, ePURE is calling for European policy makers to introduce a long-term policy framework to support the broadening of Europe’s network of biorefineries by 2030. Such a framework would
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Broadening the sources and uses for cellulosic ethanol. As we reported yesterday (October 6, 2014) in the Digest, DuPont and Procter & Gamble, announced a collaboration to use cellulosic ethanol in North American Tide laundry detergent,
by Amy Yee (The New York Times) The red-and-white Boeing 737 looked like any other plane on the tarmac at Orlando International Airport. But on a clear day last July, the plane became the first commercial flight powered by a
by David Shaffer (Star Tribune) In Minneapolis, industry officials say federal government erred in setting low targets for biofuels delivered at the pump. Leaders of the nation’s biofuels industry on Monday accused the Obama administration of undermining the commercial success
by Holly Jessen (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Is grain ethanol chemically the same as cellulosic ethanol? The short answer is, “yes.” ... “Chemically, there is no difference between grain and cellulosic ethanol,” she (Sabrina Trupia, assistant director of biological research, National Corn-to-Ethanol
(SynBioBeta/BusinessWire) Proterro, the only biofeedstock company that makes sucrose instead of extracting it from crops or deconstructing cellulosic materials, is featured in a series of 2014 SynBioBeta industry reports. “The importance of sugar as an industrial feedstock will grow as industrial
(National Oilheat Research Alliance) Research conducted by the National Oilheat Research Alliance (NORA) on blending ASTM D6751 biodiesel with both standard and low sulfur heating oil confirms that blends up to 20 percent biodiesel can be used in heating oil
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) The state of R&D so far. 4 NAABB advances have brought the cost of algae biocrude oil down to $7.50 per gallon. 3 roadblocks remain between today’s cost and $3.00. In our two-part series, we look first
by Wendy Koch (USA Today) People living near natural-gas wells were more than twice as likely to report upper-respiratory and skin problems than those farther away, says a major study Wednesday on the potential health effects of fracking. Nearly two of
by Jennifer Runyon (RenewableEnergyWorld.com) There was never any conflict between using corn for food or for ethanol since corn growers send most of their product to animal feedlots. That product isn’t even meant for human consumption anyway. It was an abundant year
by Susanne Retka Schill (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The estimation of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions due to land use change (LUC) for corn ethanol has been ratcheted down by Argonne National Laboratory. The recently published manual for the Carbon Calculator for
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The U.S. EPA has posted a notice to its website announcing it has taken action to improve and streamline the pathway petition process under the renewable fuels standard (RFS). In March, the agency issued a
(Neste Oil) Neste Oil is to realign its long-term R&D and switch its emphasis from microbial oil research to other areas of technology for using forestry and agricultural waste. This type of waste will continue to play an important role
By David Appleyard (Co-Generation and On-Site Power Production) A new bioethanol production plant that has been commissioned in Brazil is helping to fuel an adjacent cogeneration facility that supplies process steam, as well as electricity to the grid. Granbio has
by Sabina Zawadzki (Reuters) * Three of four advanced biofuel plants use Novozymes enzymes * Biomass conversion could transform Novozymes in future * Biofuel sector in continuing U.S. regulatory battle When Denmark's Novozymes first wondered in 2000 how its mass-produced enzymes could be used
by Douglas Durante (Clean Fuels Development Coalition/DelMarVa Now) A recent column from Dan Ervin is so wholly lacking in facts, the author does himself a disservice. The renewable fuel requirement supports U.S. agriculture and reduces dependence on imported oil
What I Can Do to Lessen Our Addiction to Oil? George W. Bush urged the US to “get off our addiction to oil.” He talked about biofuels made from switchgrass as one solution. So, how are we doing? OK, but we
(OBIC Bioproducts Innovation Center) Bioproduct Innovation of the Year Awards Announced at Bioproducts World Showcase and Conference The inaugural Bioproducts Innovation of the Year awards were announced today (October 6, 2014) at the Bioproducts World 2014 Showcase and Conference, being held today through Wednesday
October 6, 2014—Columbus, OH -- Robert Kozak of Atlantic Biomass Conversions contributes his thoughtful approach to answering these questions* posed by Biofuels Digests’s Jim Lane: “As the first wave of cellulosic biorefineries launch — is there really enough affordable feedstock
by Nikki Henderson (ArkLaTex Homepage) Sweet sorghum is not currently grown as a commercial crop in Louisiana, but in the future, producers may consider growing it for use as a biofuel feedstock. To help guide commercial production of this crop, the LSU
(Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership) Building on the LowCVP's recent studies on fuels decarbonisation a new Transport Energy Task Force has been established. The Task Force will help the Government to examine and formulate options for meeting the 2020 RED renewable transport fuel
(Agence Ecofin) ... "It is an ecological project to reduce deforestation by reducing the use of wood as fuel," noted Roland Jules Etienne, Minister of Industry and private sector development, while unveiling the vision Malagasy government to open more units in
(25 x '25) ... UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon brought government, finance, business and civil society leaders to New York because it is recognized that climate change is not a theory or a concept, but is, in fact, an immediate problem, having
by Wayne Visser (The Guardian) A swath of green chemistry initiatives could revolutionise the industry but just taking the toxic stuff out isn’t the answer, ingredients and design need to change The ‘green’ label has been so abused over the past few
by Sara Hessenflow Harper (Vela Environmental, Kennedy and Coe LLC/Ethanol Producer Magazine) Supply-chain sustainability is something that should be a high priority for ethanol producers, writes Sara Hessenflow Harper. Data collection is a critical component of that. ... Sustainability, at its simplest, is
by Kurt A. Rosentrater (Distillers Grains Technology Council/Ethanol Producer Magazine) Traditional DDGS is a proved ingredient in aquaculture feed, writes Kurt Rosentrater. He vies a broad look at the industry and history of its use. ... Unbeknownst to many, however, traditional DDGS has already
by Bliss Baker (Global Renewable Fuels Association/Ethanol Producer Magazine) In advance of important climate change meetings set for Septemeber, the Global Renewable Fuels Alliance sent an open letter to United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, outlining ethanol's power to reduce GHG emissions,
by Geoff Cooper (Renewable Fuels Association/Ethanol Producer Magazine) Biodiesel produced from corn distillers oil (CDO) is assigned an extremely low carbon intensity (CI) score under the California Low Carbon Fuel Standard, making it a tremendously attractive compliance option for regulated
by Katie Fletcher (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Many dedicated energy crops hold promise as feedstocks for next-generation ethanol. Extensive R&D is still needed, however, to overcome the challenges in making these plants viable for commercial applications. ... This year, $12.6 million was awarded to
by Meghan Sapp (Biofuels Digest) In California, researchers have published a study that shows the state could be powered entirely be renewable resources by 2050. The study focuses on water, wind and sunlight, ostensibly pushing biofuels into the “unwanted” category with
(GreenAir Online) Following its recent approval by international fuel standards body ASTM, the sugar-based biofuel developed by the Total oil group and US-based biotech company Amyris was used by Lufthansa on a commercial flight from Frankfurt to Berlin on Monday
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... Most algae strains — though far from all — have protein content in the 40-60% range. Which, at the end of the day, puts any algae farmer into the meal market. There’s too much value
by Sergei Blair (Town and Country) Although it may look like an ordinary tall grass, scientists from Penn State's Cooperative Extension, Montgomery County, said switchgrass—commonly found across much of the eastern and southern Unites States—can be the next best source
by Valerie Volcovici (Reuters) The World Bank said Monday that 73 national and 11 regional governments and some 1,000 companies will join forces to push for policies setting a price on carbon emissions to encourage a shift to cleaner energy
(Clariant/Ethanol Producer Magazine) Clariant, Haltermann and Mercedes-Benz have tested a fuel of the future in a fleet test since January. Initial results prove the high quality and excellent properties of sunliquid 20 fuel (contains 20 percent ethanol coming from straw). With
(Air Transport Action Group) The aviation sector joined other business and government groups at the United Nations Climate Summit today to announce a commitment on climate action between the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), a United Nations specialized agency, and
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Renewable jet fuel makes another remove forward — as a new study concludes that delay on implementing RFS2 could be the equivalent of building 5.5 new coal-fired power plants in terms of CO2. In New York,
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) World’s largest-known cellulosic ethanol project to date comes online in Brazil in record time. In Brazil, GranBio has initiated production at the first commercial-scale plant for second-generation ethanol in the Southern Hemisphere. The Bioflex 1, unit
(University of California-Irvine) Abundant supplies of natural gas will do little to reduce harmful U.S. emissions causing climate change, according to researchers at UC Irvine, Stanford University, and the nonprofit organization Near Zero. They found that inexpensive gas boosts electricity
[caption id="attachment_56190" align="alignleft" width="300"] Entrance to industrial Harvey Canal, Harvey, Louisiana[/caption] by Joanne Ivancic* (Advanced Biofuels USA) Golden Leaf Energy’s Troy A. Clark grew up in Louisiana. Studying chemical engineering at Tulane University brought him into contact with the oil industry.
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Washington, the Department of Defense has awarded $210 million under the Defense Production Act to Emerald Biofuels, Fulcrum BioEnergy and Red Rock Bio towards the construction of biorefineries that produce cost-competitive, drop-in military biofuels. Under the grants, the
(University of Wyoming) After graduating from Northern Kentucky University with bachelor’s degrees in chemistry and accounting, Allen Morris decided to pursue graduate studies at the University of Wyoming for two primary reasons: the Rocky Mountain lifestyle, and an attractive stipend
(Green Mountain Power) GMP collaborates on Innovative Farm-to-Energy Biodiesel Test Beautiful fields of sunflowers growing in Newbury and Shaftsbury will have an unusual future: the flowers’ seeds will be converted to biodiesel and livestock feed. The fuel will be used in
by Julie Pham (Forbes) Recoleo vans, with their signature cartoon oil drop, collect over 400,000 liters of vegetable oil from 1,500 homes and 3,500 businesses each month across four Brazilian states to process into biodiesel for over 5,000 clients. Later
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... This is Blake Simmons — known primarily as the Vice President of Deconstruction at JBEI — which sounds like he’s the Galactic Master-Blaster of lignocellulose. And, yes, he is indeed, as one of the primary forces
by Robert Pollin, Heidi Garrett-Peltier, James Heintz, and Bracken Hendricks (Center for American Progress) ... This report quantifies the level of investment required for the United States to align emissions reductions with international goals in an economically beneficial and
by CBriddell (Green Chemistry: The Nexus Blog) Dr. Anne E. Marteel-Parrish of Washington University and Dr. Martin A. Abraham of Youngstown State University have put together a new textbook for general chemistry titled, “Green Chemistry and Engineering: A pathway to
(Lufthansa) Memorandum of Understanding signed with JatroSolutions GmbH on the cultivation of jatropha The Lufthansa Group has marked another milestone in its pioneering work in the testing of alternative fuels. Today, Lufthansa flight LH 190 from Frankfurt to Berlin Tegel is
by Delayne Johnson (Des Moines Register/Quad County Corn Processors) This month, our company, Quad County Corn Processors, will debut an innovative new technology that promises to make one of Iowa's signature agricultural products — corn — go even further. Over a
by Deirdre Fulton (Common Dreams) Could world's wealthy philanthropic foundations spur a 'tipping point' on climate action? A group of 160 leading environmentalists is calling on the world's philanthropists and foundations to use their money to "create a tipping point on
by Elizabeth Zubritsky (NASA) A laser-based instrument being developed for the International Space Station will provide a unique 3-D view of Earth’s forests, helping to fill in missing information about their role in the carbon cycle. Called the Global Ecosystem Dynamics Investigation (GEDI) lidar, the
(RIA Novosti) Shifting to a low-carbon economy over the next 15 years could save worldwide financial and environmental costs, a report from the Global Commission on the Economy and Climate said on Tuesday. "The next 15 years will be critical, as
by Wenonah Hauter (Food and Water Watch) ... Over the next few years, scientific evidence mounted, showing not only that fracking won’t help moderate climate change, but that it has the potential to unleash massive amounts of methane that will worsen the
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) As the first wave of cellulosic biorefineries launch — is there really enough affordable feedstock for the next wave? Can growers make enough money to justify the switch…and risk? ... It’s not all that different with the first
(GreenEA Team) The market of Used Cooking Oil (UCO) collection is relatively young, however, with high growth potential and very positive outlook. The oil used in the food industry (restaurants, canteens, fast-foods etc.) is then collected, cleaned and finally transformed into
(Celtic Renewables) Celtic Renewables has been recognised by the motor industry, winning a top honour at the Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership (LowCVP)’s annual Low Carbon Champions awards. The company won the Low CVP’s award for Low Carbon Innovation by an SME at a gala dinner in Milton
by Suzanne Goldenberg (The Guardian) New book by Naomi Klein claims that Virgin founder gave less than a tenth of cash promised to develop low carbon fuel Richard Branson has failed to deliver on his much-vaunted pledge to spend $3bn (£1.8bn) over
by Robert Kozak (Advanced Biofuels USA) This past weekend the first race of the much hyped Formula-E electric car series was run in Beijing, China. http://www.racer.com/f1/formula-e/item/108558-formula-e-di-grassi-wins-as-prost-triggers-last-lap-crash The 45 minute race, which required two electric cars (with top speeds about 80 mph
by Chase Ezell (Earth911) ... Currently most of those emissions are being emitted directly into our outdoor environment. Now what if there was a way to capture those emissions, use photosynthesis and turn the byproduct into usable fuels? Still sound too good to be
by Brent Erickson (The Hill/Biotechnology Industry Organization) President Obama’s bold vision to transition the nation to a cleaner energy future is about to be derailed by one of his most potent adversaries: himself. To the great consternation of many of the
(TUOI TRE NEWS) All filling stations in the central province of Quang Ngai on Monday began selling E5 RON 92, a biofuel intended to replace the commonly used RON 92 gasoline, three months ahead of schedule. Six other cities and
by Rex Springston (Richmond Times-Dispatch) Panel assessing rising seas holds first meeting, discusses action plan Col. Paul B. Olsen, commander of the Army Corps of Engineers’ Norfolk District, showed a slide of Holland Island. The once-populated spot in the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland
by Pamela Rockwell* (Advanced Biofuels USA) It was fitting that the VIII annual ISO DATAGRO New York Sugar and Ethanol Conference took place in the Empire Room of the Waldorf Astoria in New York City. The event is sponsored jointly by
by Michael T. Klare (Huffington Post) … U.S. oil consumption is on an upward trajectory, climbing by 400,000 barrels per day in 2013 alone -- and, if current trends persist, it should rise again both this year and next. … Accompanying all this is a little noticed
(ClearTheAirChicago.com) Using E15 gas rather than regular gas will reduce cancer-causing pollutants and smog in Chicago’s air, says a new report that reviews and aggregates the results of independent research by the Department of Energy, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, California
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In the UK, If you look this week in your Google News alerts, you’ll see an awful lot of breathless headlines around a meme something like “Researchers have engineered the harmless gut bacteria E.coli to generate
(US Department of Agriculture) $105 Million loan guarantee provided through the Biorefinery Assistance Program Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced that USDA has closed on a loan guarantee to Fulcrum Sierra Biofuels, LLC to build a biorefinery to produce jet fuel from municipal
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) POET-DSM’s 20 million gallon cellulosic ethanol plant opens with hoopla, and heartfelt messages about the spirit of innovation, and a time for technology change and policy firmness. “Once, we all lived off the land, sun, wind
by David Patterson (Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development) A nearly 900 page literature review regarding forest fuel reduction, isolation or modification treatments that can be used to reduce the risk of wildfire spread; including opportunities to use the biomass generated
(AP/AgriNews) A new era of ethanol fuel production will begin soon as Iowa refineries begin full operation using materials other than corn kernels. Iowa has two major cellulosic plants under construction that will use corn plant leaves, stalks and cobs to
by Steve Savage (GMO Answers) Do GMO crops "foster monoculture?" This is a frequent criticism of modern agriculture. I have three with problems it: "Monoculture" isn't the right term to use to describe the relevant issues - it’s really about a
(Neste Oil/Biomass Magazine) Neste Oil and Renewable Algal Energy, a U.S.-based algae biomass producer, have signed a contingent commercial algae oil off-take agreement. Algae oil is one of the alternatives being researched by Neste Oil for use as a feedstock
(India Today) Nagpur received India's first ethanol-run city passenger transport bus, which has been manufactured by Scania, the Sweden-based commercial vehicle and engine maker, for trial runs on Friday. Scania Commercial Vehicles India Managing Director Anders Grundstomer handed over keys
by Dr. Doria Gordon (The Nature Conservancy/Biofuels Digest) Cultivation of bioenergy crops is predicted to increase to between 27 and 120 million acres by 2022 in order to meet the renewable energy needs of the U.S. and the Environmental Protection
(Genera Energy) Infographic highlights a variety of biomass feedstocks, provides insight into choosing the right solution for any biomass project Genera Energy, a recognized innovator in sustainable biomass feedstock supply advancements and supply chain improvements, released a new infographic featuring a
(John Deere) Hillco Technologies, Inc., working in developmental partnership with John Deere, has developed a revolutionary new system for harvesting corn and baling corn stover in one simple step. The Hillco Single Pass Round Bale System delivers the next generation of
by Jeff DeYoung (Iowa Farmer Today) Mike Greenfield has more than 80 percent of his corn residue contracted to DuPont for use in the company’s cellulosic ethanol plant. If he had his way, all of it would be heading toward the plant
by Silvio Marcacci (The Energy Collective) ... The report (International Renewable Energy Agency’s (IRENA) REmap 2030) lays out a five-step roadmap for scaling renewable energy up to 36% of the world’s total final energy consumption (TFEC), cutting coal use 26% and oil/gas
(Diesel Technology Forum) ... Today 21 percent of all diesel buses in operation are diesel electric hybrids. These buses improve fuel economy and reduce emissions. By allowing for a smaller diesel engine to work alongside a hybrid powertrain, which in turn
by Ben Evans (National Biodiesel Board/Diesel Technology Forum) The dramatic growth in availability of new technology diesel engines and vehicles for the U.S. market is welcome news for consumers and fleets that want the tremendous power, performance and 30-40 percent
(Global BioBusiness) ... Alkol Biotech, signed an agreement with the council of the city of Motril in the Andalusia region of Spain to develop what could be Europe’s first sugarcane development lab. The lab will develop new sugarcane varieties with better
(Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials) MBP Group has earned the Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials (RSB) sustainability certification for their waste material collection, trading and distribution activities. "MBP Group was built on a sustainable background, adding as much value as possible to industrial
(25 x '25) Making sure the federal accounting system for biogenic carbon emissions—ensuring that it is an accurate system, and taking into scientific account the unique features of biomass in the carbon cycle is front and center for over 100
by Milsa Vijayadharan* (Advanced Biofuels USA) PLA (Polylactic Acid) is a polyester derived from renewable raw materials such as corn, cassava (tapioca) and other plants. Compared to other bio-based polymers (such as PET, PE) PLA is considered a greener alternative
by Pauline Dikuelo (MmegiOnline) The Minister of Minerals, Energy and Water Resources Kitso Mokaila has revealed that government is currently drafting an energy policy. The policy is expected to map out a successful way forward for Botswana’s renewable energy landscape. ... He said
(North European Oil Trade Oy/St1 Biofuels/BusinessWire) North European Bio Tech Oy (NEB) has made an investment decision concerning the construction of a bioethanol plant on the Renforsin Ranta industrial estate in Kajaani. The raw material for the plant will be
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In Washington, USDA released its August World Agriculture Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report. The 2014 corn crop is estimated at 14.032 billion bushels. That is 172 million bushels higher than the previous record established
(Platts) Fuel ethanol consumption in Europe in the first half of 2014 was low and the sector lacked the political support to meet Europe's renewable energy targets, Manuel Sanchez-Ortega, CEO of Spain-based ethanol producer Abengoa, said Wednesday. In an earnings call
by Michael Wang and Jennifer Dunn (Huffington Post/Argonne National Laboratory) ... A proposed City of Chicago ordinance that would require most gas stations to offer E15 fuel - 15 percent ethanol, 85 percent gasoline - is one example of a smaller
(Postcode Lottery Green Challenge/WNEM.com) Five eco-friendly startups from the Netherlands, the United Kingdom,France and Vietnam will compete in the finale of the Postcode Lottery Green Challenge, an annual worldwide competition for startups with environmentally sustainable business plans. One of these entrepreneurs will win €500,000 ($680,000
(U.S. Department of Energy) Bioenergy: America's Energy Future is a short documentary film showcasing examples of bioenergy innovations across the biomass supply chain and the United States. The film highlights a few stories of individuals and companies who are passionate
by Donnelle Eller (Des Moines Register) Poet-DSM plans to celebrate the opening of its Emmetsburg cellulosic ethanol plant, called Project Liberty, Sept. 3. The $250 million project will use 770 tons of corn cobs, leaves, husk and stalks daily to produce
by Ron Kotrba (Biodiesel Magazine) The Renwicks of South Carolina, owners of Winnsboro-based Midlands Biofuels, persevere through the biodiesel industry's instability with ingenuity, passion and teamwork. This is their story. What do an emergency room medical doctor, gardening and a community-scale
by Michael Carus (nova-Institute/Bio-Based News) On 23 April 2014 SABIC announced “that it will launch its first portfolio of certified renewable polyolefins, certified under the ISCC Plus certification scheme, which involves strict traceability and requires a chain of custody based on
(US Department of Agriculture) For the First Time, USDA Climate Hubs Get New Tools to Gauge Progress in Building Drought-Resistant Healthy Soil The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today (July 31, 2014) released a report that, for the first time, provides
by Richard Taylor and Won W. Koo (Center for Agricultural Policy and Trade Studies North Dakota State University) ... The first immediate impact of ethanol was increased agricultural commodity prices. In 2005, the corn price averaged $2.00 per bushel. At the end of 2006,
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Think affordable, available, sustainable carbon is the biggest barrier to the growth of biofuels? Or, access to market via blender pumps? In the case of drop-in biofuels, the biggest challenge might be finding enough hydrogen.
by Amanda Bilek (Biomass Magazine) There is little doubt that allowing biogas-based transportation fuel projects to sell either advanced biofuel or cellulosic compliance credits will give a big boost to U.S. projects. In early July, the U.S. EPA published a final
by Sue Retka Schill (Biomass Magazine) Advanced biofuels and biomass play supporting roles in several scenarios examined in a recent report from the World Bank Group looking at climate-smart development. The report introduces a new comprehensive model developed to take
by Olatomiwa Bifarin* (Advanced Biofuel USA) On Tuesday, July 15 2014, Biofuels Digest hosted a webinar discussing creating sustainable supply chains for cellulosic biofuels – a germane issue that will ultimately determine the commercial viability of cellulosic biofuels. One of the
(GreenAir Online) The potential to reduce UK aviation’s annual carbon emissions by up to 1.7 million tonnes by 2030 through the uptake of sustainable aviation fuels can only be realised with government support, says UK industry environmental strategy group Sustainable Aviation
(GreenAir Online) Japan has become the latest country to launch a government-backed initiative to investigate the potential of developing a domestic sustainable aviation biofuel industry. Over 30 companies and organisations from the aerospace, fuel, engineering, finance and research sectors have formed
(GreenAir Online) Less than a month after approval for commercial use by fuel certification body ASTM International, Brazilian carrier GOL has announced it is to begin flying with blended farnesane renewable jet fuel developed by the Amyris/Total partnership. The sugarcane-derived Synthetic
(The World Bank) The companies we turn to every day for electricity, transportation, consumer goods, and even electronics face risks from climate change. Most need reliable water for production processes and products. Extreme weather and temperatures can hurt their productivity
by Russell Hubbard (Omaha World-Herald) It starts out as freeze-dried fungus or bacteria from Denmark and ends up being one of the key ingredients in what some are calling Nebraska’s and Iowa’s shot at the big time when it comes
by Katie Fletcher (Ethanol Producer Magazine) A popular breakout session at the 2014 American Coalition for Ethanol conference discussed the potential impacts the Food and Drug Administration’s Food Safety Modernization Act may have on plant operations. Paula Emberland of Christian
(Reuters) ... China produces more than 90 percent of the world's rare earths, which are key elements in defense industry components and modern technology from iPhones and disk drives to wind turbines. It imposed strict export quotas in 2010, saying it
by Lindsey Alexander (Purdue University) Farmers using cover crops as a soil conservation method can remove much more corn stover per acre for biofuels or other uses and at the same time potentially increase their income, Purdue University research shows. The
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In Washington, USDA, EPA and the US DOE published the Biogas Opportunities Roadmap, and concluded that: · Developing a viable biogas industry in the U.S. can boost the economy and provide a reliable, distributed source of renewable energy
(University of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences/EurekAlert!) If the hottest new plant grown as a biofuel crop is approved based solely on its greenhouse gas emission profile, its potential as the next invasive species may not be
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) All that food waste, all that potential value. What’s being done about all that material heading from the garbage pail to the landfill? Turns out, the State of Hawaii and BioTork are doing a lot.
by Ken Anderson (Brownfield Ag News) There’s been considerable debate as to whether farming conservation practices should remain voluntary or be made mandatory. But Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack believes voluntary programs are working and that farmers are embracing new conservation
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... SkyNRG is undertaking its first major feedstock project in South Africa, featuring a nicotine-free energy tobacco crop that’s developed by Sunchem under the name of Solaris. Which is an excellent reminder of how much activity
(Fulcrum BioEnergy/PRNewswire) -- Cathay Pacific Airways announced today that it is the first airline investor in Fulcrum BioEnergy, Inc. ("Fulcrum"), a US-based sustainable biofuel developer, as part of the airline's biofuel strategy and to help it achieve a target of
by Katie Fletcher (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Many ethanol advocates attending and speaking at the 2014 American Coalition for Ethanol conference are not strangers to the ethanol industry. Even though they have been with the industry for a while, many reject
(prweb.com) The Water Environment Research Foundation (WERF) has selected Drexel University to perform research that will monitor and quantify the composition of waste greases to improve knowledge about the feasibility of grease-to-biodiesel processes. A key outcome of the Extraction of
By Megan Hart (Topeka Capital-Journal) Fuel is chemically identical to petroleum-based diesel Two ethanol plants in Kansas have started turning a different part of corn into a fuel they say can replace conventional diesel. Jeff Oestmann, president and CEO of East Kansas
By Mark Drajem (Bloomberg) In the arid Imperial Valley of California, Tim Brummels is trying to turn an agricultural cousin of sugarcane into low-carbon ethanol. It’s the kind of climate-friendly project supporters have pined for since Congress in 2005 ordered
(US Department of Agriculture) The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today released a report that,for the first time, provides uniform scientific methods for quantifying the changes in greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) and carbon storage from various land management and conservation activities.
by Kay Ledbetter (AgriLife Today) As requirements grow for use of cellulosic biofuels to meet the energy needs of the nation, researchers look at potential feedstocks and any effects these alternative sources may have on greenhouse gas emissions. A recent Texas A&M
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In California, Stanford engineering professor Mark Jacobsen, writing in Energy, says that the state of California could completely abandon fossil fuels by 2050 with dedicated development of its solar, wind, tidal, wave, geothermal resources and
(Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council) An innovative 'trigeneration' system fuelled entirely by raw plant oils could have great potential for isolated homes and businesses operating outside grid systems both in the UK and abroad. Developed by a consortium led by
(Amyris) GOL Airlines Flight from Orlando to Sao Paulo First to Use Sugarcane-Derived Renewable Jet Fuel On July 31, Amyris partnered with Brazilian airline, GOL, to fly the industry’s first commercial flight with farnesane, the recently approved renewable jet fuel. The first flight,
(Yahoo! News/SG Preston) $400 Million Facility in Lawrence County to Create 100 Permanent Jobs and Produce 120 Million Gallons Annually SG Preston (SGP), a bioenergy leader, today announced the planned development of a 120 million gallon renewable diesel facility in Lawrence
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) 1. The Hot 50 and Hot 30: A perennial favorite. This year, Solazyme topped the list while LanzaTech slipped into second place. ... 2. The Top 100 People: Another perennial. This year, international project developers made
by Robert Rubin (The Washington Post) Good economic decisions require good data. And to get good data, we must account for all relevant variables. But we’re not doing this when it comes to climate change — and that means we’re
by Dr. Lew Fulton (University of California-Davis Institute of Transportation Studies) ... In a new white paper released this week by the Institute of Transportation Studies at UC Davis (ITS-Davis), we measure the incremental changes that are occurring in the U.S.
by Susanne Retka Schill (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Researchers in Montana are looking at an enzymatic treatment for barley that produces a high-value protein concentrate, describing ethanol as the process coproduct. Feed barley has been an important crop in Montana that has
by Susanne Retka Schill (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Forward-thinking producers will build on technological improvements implemented in recent years. There are multiple options in the ethanol producer’s toolkit in the ongoing quest to improve efficiency and yield. They can be as basic as
by John M. Urbanchuk (ABF Economics/Renewable Fuels Association) ... Reflecting this enhanced competitiveness and maturation, ethanol prices (both FOB plant and delivered at key U.S. markets) have declined, while crude oil and conventional gasoline prices remained stable or increased. Consequently: 1. U.S.-produced ethanol continues to improve
(MyNewsDesk.com/Schmack Biogas GmbH) Schmack Carbotech has been awarded the contract to construct a plant with a processing capacity of 2000 Nm3/h in raw biogas in Sofielund Huddinge, Stockholm. Gas with a methane content of 97 percent after purification will
(Environmental Defense Fund) Mapping the Companies Driving California’s Clean Transportation Future EDF's Green Roads Map, completed with assistance from CALSTART, Environmental Entrepreneurs (E2), and the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), plots the companies demonstrating how clean transportation policies help rather than
(Union of Concerned Scientists) Sustainable practices can turn crop residues and manure into bioenergy without competing with food supplies U.S. agriculture could provide up to 155 million tons of crop residues and 60 million tons of manure to produce clean fuels
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) A new agricultural outlook report published by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development and the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations predicts that the consumption and production of biofuels will increase
by Joanna Schroeder (DomesticFuel.com) Growth Energy is attacking the myth that ethanol production increases food prices. Tom Buis, CEO of Growth Energy notes that time and again, Big Oil, big Food and special interests are attacking the ethanol industry and placing blame on them
by Jason Gonderman (Diesel Power Magazine) ... I started my informal biodiesel test with a familiar face, a 2014 Ram 2500, the same truck used for our 1500 vs. 2500 test (“Sibling Rivalry,” March 2014). Why this truck you ask? For
by Mark Matsunaga (U.S. Pacific Fleet Public Affairs/The Lemoore Navy News) Ships and aircraft in the next Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) Exercise could be running on biofuels, and they won't even need to know it, according to speakers at
(25 x '25) Reports out of Washington this week that the Obama administration’s lengthy delay in releasing a final 2014 Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) biofuel blending rule due to a White House desire to re-evaluate the blending requirements in context
(US Department of Agriculture) The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today (July 17, 2014) announced the selection of 10 projects that are being awarded funding aimed at accelerating genetic breeding programs to improve
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