by Sukalp Sharma (The Indian Express) The decision to stop diversion of sugar cane juice and sugar syrup for ethanol production, taken to ensure enough sugar supply in the country and keep prices of the sweetener in check, led to concerns
Agricultural Policy
Back TO HOMEBudzinski Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Support Biofuels & Biomanufacturing Innovation
(Office of U.S. Representatives Nikki Budzinski (D-IL-13)) U.S. Representatives Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) and Zach Nunn (IA-03) introduced bipartisan legislation to increase biofuel production and drive down energy costs for working families. The Agricultural Biorefinery Innovation and Opportunity (Ag BIO) Act would increase funding for grants to support innovation
December 08, 2023 Read Full Article
European Parliament Decides to Tighten CO2 Limits for Heavy Commercial Vehicles
(Union zur Förderung von Oel- und Proteinpflanzen e.V. (UFOP)/Biobased Diesel Daily) The Union zur Förderung von Oel- und Proteinpflanzen e.V. (UFOP) welcomed the Nov. 22 decision by the European Parliament to lower the CO2-emission limits for heavy-duty commercial vehicles. This decision
December 05, 2023 Read Full Article
Carbon Removal Funding Tracker
(Carbon180) With the dollars and power to establish and expand key federal programs for carbon removal, the government plays a critical role in deploying solutions at scale. With Carbon180’s Funding Tracker, stay up-to-date on the appropriations, authorizations, and funding opportunity announcements
December 05, 2023 Read Full Article
Monaco, Malaysia Could Explore Using Palm Oil Biofuel in Yachting Industry
Monaco and Malaysia should explore opportunities using palm oil biofuel in the leisure marine industry, said chief executive officer of the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation Olivier Wenden. This would be in line with the global environmental, sustainability and governance
December 04, 2023 Read Full Article
Biden-Harris Administration Announces Draft of the National Strategy to Reduce U.S. Food Loss and Waste PUBLIC COMMENTS DEADLINE January 3, 2024
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) USDA, EPA and FDA release draft strategy to prevent the loss and waste of food and increase recycling of organics to support a circular economy for all, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save households and businesses money, and
December 02, 2023 Read Full Article
Villagers Resist India's Biofuel Push over Hidden Health Risks
by Bhasker Tripathi (Context) Tensions caused by a new ethanol plant in the south reveal the social and environmental challenges of India's plan for greener fuel -- India's millions of small-scale farmers face rising pressure from climate change, which is hurting harvests
November 30, 2023 Read Full Article
Q&A: Carbon Pipeline Execs Say Ethanol’s Future Hangs in the Balance
(South Dakota Searchlight) ... If South Dakota’s ethanol industry does not reduce the amount of heat-trapping carbon dioxide it emits into the atmosphere, the industry’s future is grim. That’s according to two top executives of the remaining carbon-capture pipeline company hoping to
November 30, 2023 Read Full Article
Ag a Major Focus of COP28 Climate Talks: USDA, Ag Groups Focus on Production, Incentives, and the Long Game at COP28
by Chris Clayton (DTN Progressive Farmer) ... COP28 will put more focus on agriculture and food than any of the previous COP events. ... Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack told USDA staff and a group of industry stakeholders Wednesday that USDA and the Biden
November 30, 2023 Read Full Article
SD Farm Bureau Takes Stance on Carbon Pipelines
by Carah Hart (Brownfield Ag News) “(I)f a pipeline or proposed pipeline has two-thirds of landowners along the line who have voluntarily signed easements, the company should be able to use eminent domain on the rest.” South Dakota Farm Bureau has new
November 29, 2023 Read Full Article
American Drivers Have Logged 90 Billion Miles on UNL88 (E15)
(Growth Energy) AAA projects that more than 49 million Americans will hit the road and drive more than 50 miles from their homes for Thanksgiving this week. That’s a lot of miles traveled, and a lot of stops at the gas station to
November 28, 2023 Read Full Article
‘Balance’ and ‘Harmony’ and ‘SAF’: Key Words at the 2023 AFCC Global Biobased Economy Conference
by Joanne Ivancic* (Advanced Biofuels USA) Conferences serve to present the current thoughts, activities and plans for the community involved in the focus of the event. At the 2023 Alternative Fuels and Chemicals Coalition Global Biobased Economy Conference and Exhibit
November 26, 2023 Read Full Article
Villagers Resist India's Biofuel Push, Fearing Hidden Health Risks
By Bhasker Tripathi (Reuters) Communities fear pollution from new ethanol plants; Using rice, maize for fuel threatens food security; Climate benefits of crop-based biofuels questioned -- Over a year ago, locals were alarmed when they saw construction begin on the
November 24, 2023 Read Full Article
Biofuels in the Pan Amazon
by Timothy J. Killeen (Mongabay) ... The spikes in commodity prices in the first decade of the twenty-first century coincided with a global boom in biofuels. The interest in biofuels was motivated allegedly by a concern for global warming but other,
November 22, 2023 Read Full Article
DeSantis Says He'll Protect Federal Ethanol Mandate Despite Previous Push to End It
by Amanda Rooker (KCCI) Florida Gov. and Republican presidential candidate Ron DeSantis is promising to support renewable fuels if elected president, despite repeated attacks from former President Donald Trump surrounding the corn-based fuel ethanol. During the Iowa GOP's Lincoln Dinner last July,
November 17, 2023 Read Full Article
Farm Bill, Budget Extension Goes to President's Desk
by Chris Clayton (DTN Progressive Farmer) The farm bill extension tied to short-term federal funding passed the Senate Wednesday night on an 87-11 vote and now goes to President Joe Biden to avoid the risk of another government shutdown. On the farm
November 16, 2023 Read Full Article
Can American Agriculture Lead the Low-Carbon Revolution?
by Tom Buis (The Messenger) In the coming decades, American agriculture could lead the low-carbon revolution in the United States thanks to technologies available today, including carbon capture and storage (CCS). By reducing the industry’s carbon intensity, American farmers and
November 15, 2023 Read Full Article
Biofuels, Renewable Energy Policies on Deck for Delegates
by Timothy Eggert (FarmWeek) Illinois Farm Bureau’s policy book may feature expanded positions on biofuels and renewable energy, after the Resolutions Committee on Nov. 8 advanced a set of proposals for final consideration at Annual Meeting. Topping the list of submittals approved by
November 14, 2023 Read Full Article
Sen. Tim Scott Checks the Biofuels Boxes
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) According to Biofuels Vision 2024, Sen. Tim Scott is the first Republican presidential candidate to check all the boxes on important issues for the biofuel industry. Iowa Renewable Fuels Association Vice President Brad Wilson, the president/general manager of the Western
November 10, 2023 Read Full Article
SfL Envoy Goes to Rome to Share Farmer Perspectives on Ag Data
(Solutions from the Land) Kyle Bridgeforth had never considered Rome an agricultural focal point until he found himself there, speaking to leaders from around the world at the 51st Session of the Committee on World Food Security (CFS). Most international leaders brought
November 09, 2023 Read Full Article
What is Ethanol and Methanol Blending, How They are Being Used & Advantages Over Fuels | Explained
by Majid Alam (News 18) At present, 10 per cent ethanol is blended in petrol and the government is looking to double this quantity by 2025 -- India is pushing for higher ethanol-blended fuel for cleaner energy and its economic value and the
November 08, 2023 Read Full Article
USDA Forest Service Proposes Rule to Facilitate Carbon Capture and Sequestration Permitting on National Forest Lands Public Comment DEADLINE January 2, 2024
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service today announced a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) that would allow the agency to consider proposals for potential carbon capture and sequestration projects on national forests and grasslands. This proposal
November 07, 2023 Read Full Article
CAQM Reviews the Progress of Setting up of Second-Generation Bio-refinery Plant at Bathinda, Punjab by HPCL worth Rs 1,400 crore for Utilization of Paddy Straw to Produce Ethanol for Blending with Petrol
(India Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change) The plant to reduce instances of paddy straw burning in Punjab -- Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL), a Central Government PSU, is setting up a Second Generation (2G) bio-refinery plant at Bathinda, Punjab at a
November 06, 2023 Read Full Article
CORSIA v. GREET for SAF: What to Do, What to Do
by Tammy Klein (Transport Energy Strategies) ... For SAF and the ethanol-based alcohol-to-jet (AtJ) pathway, the issue is one of models: CORSIA* v. GREET for purposes of calculating the SAF tax credits under the IRA. The IRA states that a fuel’s
November 02, 2023 Read Full Article
Putting the ‘S’ into SAF
by Geoff Cooper (Renewable Fuels Association/Biofuels International) When the US Congress expanded the nation’s Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) in 2007, some ill-informed environmental advocates and ideological academics started sounding the alarm bell. They argued farmers could not possibly produce enough grain to
November 02, 2023 Read Full Article
U.S. Sustainable Aviation Fuel Production Target Faces Cost, Margin Challenges
by Sourasis Bose (Reuters) The United States' goal of rapidly ramping up production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) may encounter strong headwinds as producers balk at the low margins for the biofuel and some airlines flag concerns over the costly switch,
November 02, 2023 Read Full Article
Ethanol Industry Still Waiting on Tax Guidance
by Carah Hart (Brownfield Ag News) The CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association says the U.S. Treasury Department still hasn’t issued additional guidance on federal tax credits from the Inflation Reduction Act. Geoff Cooper tells Brownfield he’s expecting an announcement anytime. “By
November 02, 2023 Read Full Article
House Biofuels Caucus Introduces GREET Act
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) House Biofuels Caucus Co-chairs Dusty Johnson (R-SD) Adrian Smith (R-NE), Angie Craig (D-MN), and Mark Pocan (D-WI) this week introduced the Adopt Greenhouse Gases, Regulated Emissions, and Energy Use in Transportation (GREET) Act to direct the Environmental Protection Agency
November 02, 2023 Read Full Article
Sustainable Aviation Fuel Industry Leaders Call on Biden Administration to Immediately Recognize Argonne GREET Model
(Renewable Fuels Association) As President Biden kicks off a series of events focused on rural investment, 70 industry leaders covering nearly the entire supply chain for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) – including major airlines – called on the Biden Administration to unleash progress in
November 01, 2023 Read Full Article
Klobuchar, Moran Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Support Biorefineries, Renewable Chemicals, and Biomanufacturing
(Office of Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN)) U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Jerry Moran (R-KS) introduced bipartisan legislation to enhance the ability of the Biorefinery, Renewable Chemical, and Biobased Products Assistance program to support the development of biofuels, renewable chemicals, and
October 31, 2023 Read Full Article
Bold Actions to Accelerate the Bioeconomy: Findings from the Bold Goals Action Group
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In San Francisco on the sidelines of the ABLC NEXT 2023 meeting, a coalition of the willing called the Bold Goals Action Group outlined a series of 31 Bold Actions that must be taken by industry
October 31, 2023 Read Full Article
Opinion: Climate Change and Hunger Are Here Now—a New Farm Bill Can’t Wait
by Beth Ellikidis (Biotechnology Innovation Organization/Agri-Pulse) ... One way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect our climate is by getting more of the energy we use from above the ground instead of beneath it. The biotech company LanzaTech genetically engineers microbes to
October 25, 2023 Read Full Article
Pivoting Ethanol Industry to Stay Relevant
by Tom C. Doran (AgriNews) ... Illinois Corn recently hosted a series of meetings and a webinar that addressed “the crossroads of carbon and corn.” The theme focused on the importance of reducing the carbon footprint that would create new market opportunities
October 25, 2023 Read Full Article
The Future of Sustainable Aviation Fuel Depends on the 2023 Farm Bill
by Leah Garden (GreenBiz) Sustainable aviation fuel is emerging as the most viable path forward for a decarbonized aviation industry, if the 2023 Farm Bill provides adequate funding. -- ... Even though aviation contributes a total of 2.5 percent of GHG emissions annually, SAF
October 25, 2023 Read Full Article
Brazil Bucks Trend for EVs by Turning to Biofuels
(NHK) Electric vehicles are leading the charge to decarbonize the global auto industry, but Brazil is making a strong case for bioethanol. And some of the biggest names in the business are jumping on board. "I refueled with ethanol," says a driver
October 24, 2023 Read Full Article
USDA Releases Assessment on Agriculture and Forestry in Carbon Markets
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) A key deliverable under the Growing Climate Solutions Act, the report identifies opportunities and needed solutions to improve farmers’ access to carbon markets -- U.S Department of Agriculture (USDA) released A General Assessment of the Role of Agriculture and
October 24, 2023 Read Full Article
Electric Vehicles Face Bumpy Road to the Back 40
by Steve Cubbage (AgWeb) There is one place in America where electric vehicles are glaringly absent — the back 40. Today, electric tractors and other farming equipment are hard to find on showroom floors, let alone in the field. The outside pressure
October 23, 2023 Read Full Article
Sen. Klobuchar Tours Guardian Energy; Introduces GREET Legislation
(Minnesota Bio-Fuels Association) Sen. Amy Klobuchar toured Minnesota Bio-Fuels Association Producer Member, Guardian Energy, in Janesville on Oct 14 to reiterate her support for Minnesota’s ethanol industry and discuss her work to lift outdated restrictions on the summertime sale of E15. “It
October 18, 2023 Read Full Article
Biofuels Hold Promise as Alternative to Fossil Fuels
by Pitambara and Bishwa Bhaskar Choudhary (The Tribune) The govt should consider making a budgetary allocation to implement measures to promote wasteland for the cultivation of energy crops and impart technical know-how to farmers. Increasing the allocation and extending the term
October 16, 2023 Read Full Article
The Policy Push behind Sustainable Aviation Fuel
By Timothy Eggert (FarmWeek Now) ... Attention and advocacy around sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), what (Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom) Vilsack frames as “the next generation” of liquid biofuels, has accelerated since 2016, with policymakers and industry stakeholders presenting it as
October 10, 2023 Read Full Article
Airline Investment in Sustainable Aviation Fuel Taking off
By Timothy Eggert (FarmWeek Now) ... Backed with financial support and tax incentives at the federal and state levels, the push for boosting SAF production in the U.S. has accelerated since 2016, with stakeholders presenting it as a critical pathway to
October 10, 2023 Read Full Article
36 Characters in Search of an Author: The Quest for a National Energy Solution, Part 1
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) The problem of renewable molecules is not hard to understand. Molecules that are sustainable and affordable are not available. Those that are sustainable and available are not affordable. If they are available and affordable, they are not
October 10, 2023 Read Full Article
Group Finds GOP Candidates Support Year Round E15
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) An Iowa biofuels coalition reports unanimous support among all Republican presidential candidates for consumer access to year-round E15 and opposition to electric vehicles (EV) mandates. “All the active candidates in Iowa agree that consumers deserve choices in how
October 06, 2023 Read Full Article
Renewable Fuel Producers Call Jet Fuel a “Lifeline”
by Currey McCullough (RFD TV) Renewable fuels producers are calling the airline industry a lifeline as sustainable jet fuel could be the best hope for corn-ethanol makers. With the current Administration looking to slash gasoline demand over the next two decades, ethanol producers
October 04, 2023 Read Full Article
Ethanol: Context Missing on This Vital Fuel
by Brian Werner and Gary Prescher (Minnesota Bio-Fuels Association/ Minnesota Corn Research & Promotion Council/Minneapolis Star Tribune) The Oct. 2 commentary discussing the climate impacts of Minnesota agriculture included several misleading statements and cherry-picked science to assert that ethanol is not
October 04, 2023 Read Full Article
Farmer Perspectives on Carbon Markets Incentivizing Agricultural Soil Carbon Sequestration
by Clare T. Barbato and Aaron L. Strong (Nature Climate Action) Climate change mitigation efforts to achieve net-zero emissions require not only decreasing current greenhouse gas emissions, but also the deployment of negative emissions technologies. Soil organic carbon sequestration in agricultural
October 03, 2023 Read Full Article
CNA Discusses Priority Actions for the Biodiesel Sector
(Noticias Agricolas (Google Translation)) The Brazilian Agriculture and Livestock Confederation (CNA) discussed, in a meeting with the Biodiesel Parliamentary Front, on Wednesday (27), the priority agendas for promoting the biodiesel sector. During the meeting, the agenda of predictability for the biodiesel industry,
October 03, 2023 Read Full Article
Navigator Carbon Capture Pipeline Company Moves to Pause Bid for Iowa Permit
by Jared Strong (Iowa Capital Dispatch/Des Moines Register) Navigator CO2 Ventures wants to suspend the permit process for its planned carbon capture pipeline in Iowa until it wins approval for the project from utility regulators in Illinois. The pipeline would carry emissions
October 02, 2023 Read Full Article
Biogas Industry Perspectives
(BioCycle Magazine) The combination of state and federal policies establishing biogas-related incentives, new technology innovations, and strong investor interest have combined to create “an exciting time of immense growth for the U.S. biogas industry,” observes Patrick Serfass, Executive Director of the
September 27, 2023 Read Full Article
Accelerating the Transition to a Green Future: Ethanol-Blended Fuels and Electric Vehicles
by Tushar Chhabhaya (Aarya Automobiles/The News Motion/Times of India) ... Two technologies have emerged as frontrunners in the quest for a sustainable and environmentally conscious future of mobility: ethanol-blended fuels and electric vehicles. As we navigate the challenges of climate change and resource depletion,
September 26, 2023 Read Full Article
EPA Official Highlights Agency’s Biofuels Support
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) EPA’s Senior Advisor for Agriculture Rod Snyder talked about the agency’s commitment to biofuels and the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) during an appearance Monday at the Ag Outlook Forum in Kansas City. “In June, EPA finalized the largest renewable volume
September 26, 2023 Read Full Article
Indian Standards on Biofuel to Support Greater Bay Area’s Clean Energy Goals
(India Education Diary) The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), the National Standards Body of India commits to complement the green initiatives of the country through development of relevant standards. Through an official release, BIS also announced that the Indian Standards will
September 25, 2023 Read Full Article
Todd's Take: Has the Case for Ethanol Come Full Circle?
by Todd Hultman (DTN Progressive Farmer) ... The same day President Bush signed the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 into law, spot corn was trading near $4.39 a bushel and crude oil was near $91 a barrel, not far
September 25, 2023 Read Full Article
GAO Affirms Legality of Vilsack's Use of CCC for Climate-Smart Projects
By Philip Brasher (Agri-Pulse) The Government Accountability Office says Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack had the legal authority to use the Commodity Credit Corporation to fund the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities program, an initiative aimed at building markets for agricultural practices and
September 21, 2023 Read Full Article
Can Push for Carbon Capture Pipelines Also Mean Billions for Conservation-Minded Farming?
by Donnelle Eller (Des Moines Register) Builders of carbon capture pipelines stand to reap billions in tax credits. Will farmers also get a share?; Advocates say incentives to adopt less carbon-intensive farming practices also could be part of the equation; Whether
September 21, 2023 Read Full Article
Stu Ellis: Biofuels Looking to Takeoff with Help from Lawmakers
by Stu Ellis (Herald & Review) ... And the U.S. Department of Agriculture's projections for exports ratchet down every time a new Supply and Demand report is issued. While this is occurring, Brazil announces increased exports of corn and soybeans —
September 20, 2023 Read Full Article
A Local Struggle over Carbon Pipelines in Iowa Is Becoming a 2024 Presidential Flashpoint
by Jillian Frankel and Alex Tabet (NBC News) GOP presidential candidates are trying to strike a balance between supporting Iowa’s ethanol industry and maintaining landowners’ rights. -- ... The questions stem from efforts by three companies — Summit Carbon Solutions, Navigator CO₂
September 20, 2023 Read Full Article
Farm Bill Stalled as Time Ticks Away
by Chris Clayton (DTN Progressive Farmer) Trying to Craft a Farm Bill, IRA Climate-Smart Dollars Are Object of GOP Affection -- With two weeks left until the current farm bill expires, key players are still floating ideas about what should be in
September 18, 2023 Read Full Article
Ferrie: Biofuel Tax Credit Needs Could Mean More Dollars for Farmers’ Grain
by Rhonda Brooks (AgWeb) When the Inflation Reduction Act was signed into law last August, it unveiled an opportunity for farmers to see substantially increased value for their grain crops, says Ken Ferrie, Farm Journal Field Agronomist. At the heart of the
September 14, 2023 Read Full Article
USDA to Adjust GHG Model to Help Ethanol Get Aviation Fuel Subsidy
by Leah Douglas (Reuters) The U.S. Department of Agriculture will spend up to $400,000 to adjust a federal greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions model to ensure that aviation fuel made from corn-based ethanol is eligible for hefty subsidies, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack
September 13, 2023 Read Full Article
The Largest U.S. Aquifer Is Running Dry
by Regina Rae Weiss, Brooklyn (New York Times) Re “America Is Using Up Its Groundwater Like There’s No Tomorrow” (“Uncharted Waters” series, Sept. 2): Back in the 1960s, geologists studying the Ogallala Aquifer — the United States’ largest aquifer, which lies under
September 08, 2023 Read Full Article
GOP Bill Would Establish Gas Station Fuel Blend Requirements, DATCP Grant Program
(WisBusiness) GOP lawmakers are circulating legislation that would establish new fuel blend requirements for gas stations and create a related grant program under DATCP. In a recent cosponsorship memo, Sen. Joan Ballweg of Markesan and Rep. Todd Novak of Dodgeville touted the
September 08, 2023 Read Full Article
Biden Administration to Delay Aviation Fuel Subsidy Guidance until December, Sources Say
by Stephanie Kelly and Jarrett Renshaw (Reuters) - President Joe Biden's administration likely will delay until December a decision on whether to make it easier for sustainable aviation fuel made from corn-based ethanol to qualify for subsidies under the White House's
September 08, 2023 Read Full Article
Advanced Biofuels USA Ideas on Agricultural Policy and the Farm Bill
(Advanced Biofuels USA) As Congress begins work on the upcoming Farm Bill, Advanced Biofuels USA is well aware of the fiscal restraints that might not allow for increased funding levels for renewable energy or crop development R&D at Land Grant Schools,
September 01, 2023 Read Full Article
A New Soil Carbon Bill Breaks Ground
by Cristel Zoebisch (Carbon 180) The ARACI Act will tackle hurdles to scaling land-based carbon removal -- ... Senators (Tina) Smith (D-MN) and (Todd) Young (R-IN) introduced the Advancing Research on Agricultural Climate Impacts Act (ARACI), a critical roadmap to scaling monitoring, reporting,
September 01, 2023 Read Full Article
Coconut Association Calls for Higher Biodiesel Blend
by Janine Alexis Miguel (Manila Times) The government should consider raising the mandated biodiesel blend to reduce the Philippines' dependence on imported fuel, a coconut industry group said on Wednesday. "Just by increasing the blend to 5 percent, that particulate matter in
August 31, 2023 Read Full Article
Vilsack Defends Administration’s Ethanol Policy and Climate-Smart Programs
by Riley Smith (Iowa Agribusiness Radio Network) Today (August 30, 2023), at the Farm Progress Show in Decatur, Illinois, USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack defended the Biden Administration’s approach to supporting family farmers and the biofuels industry. Vilsack touted the department’s Climate
August 31, 2023 Read Full Article
Minnesota SAF Hub Launches First-of-Its-Kind Coalition to Scale Sustainable Aviation Fuel
(Minneapolis St. Paul Regional Economic Development Partnership/Globe Newswire) Growing SAF Hub seeking new members to accelerate progress -- A first-of-its-kind coalition is launching in Minnesota to scale sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) with the urgency commercial aviation needs to reach net zero by
August 30, 2023 Read Full Article
MN Bio-Fuels Commends State Leadership for Supporting Agriculture's Role in Reducing Emissions in the Aviation Industry
(Minnesota Bio-Fuels Association) The Minnesota Bio-Fuels Association (MN Bio-Fuels) commends Minnesota Department of Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen for his leadership advocating for the participation of agriculture and biofuel producers in decarbonizing the aviation sector in a recent letter to U.S. Secretary of Agriculture
August 28, 2023 Read Full Article
Bill Increases Support for Sustainable Aviation Fuel
by Joshua Baethge (Farm Progress) Crocket, Miller co-sponsoring Farm to Fuselage Act -- Reps. Jasmine Crockett, D- Texas, and Max Millier, R- Ohio, filed a bill on Friday to increase federal support for sustainable aviation fuel. The Farm to Fuselage Act aims to
August 23, 2023 Read Full Article
Exclusive: India Set to Ban Sugar Exports for First Time in 7 Years
by Rajendra Jadhav and Mayank Bhardwaj (Reuters) India is expected to ban mills from exporting sugar in the next season beginning October, halting shipments for the first time in seven years, as a lack of rain has cut cane yields, three
August 23, 2023 Read Full Article
Growth Energy Releases New Economic And Job Benefits Data On IRA’s One-Year Anniversary
(Growth Energy) Exclusive new research illustrates tremendous potential of 45Z tax credit, importance of LCA modeling -- Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuels trade association, marked the one-year anniversary of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) by releasing new data on the economic,
August 22, 2023 Read Full Article
Farmers Need Incentives to Overcome Risks of Adopting Climate-Smart Agriculture Practices
(Solutions from the Lane) Change is not easy, especially when it involves financial risk. That’s the situation farmers and ranchers find themselves in when considering innovative, climate-smart agricultural practices. Sure, in the long run, many farmers find that adopting practices like
August 22, 2023 Read Full Article
‘Need Serious Efforts to Promote Biofuel’
(Star of Mysore) World Biofuel Day observed at NIE; saplings given to students, dignitaries’ -- Deputy Director (Training) of Abdul Nazir Sab State Institute of Rural Development (ANSSIRD), Mysuru, K.S. Manoj Kumar has said that “We should give priority to adopt sustainable
August 14, 2023 Read Full Article
U.K. Policy Paper Biomass Strategy 2023
(U.K. Department for Energy Security and Net Zero) This strategy sets out the role sustainable biomass can play in reaching net zero, what government is doing to enable that objective, and where further action is needed. Biomass is a versatile resource and can
August 11, 2023 Read Full Article
RFS15 The Policy Origins of the Renewable Fuel Standard (aka, "Ethanol"): The Ethanol Pivot
by Eric Vettel (Energy Today) ... Replacing lead with MTBE reduced emissions almost overnight. By 1995, the Sierra Club celebrated MTBE as the “innovation of the year,” and George H. W. Bush considered the reform one of the most notable accomplishments
August 07, 2023 Read Full Article
Bold Biofuel Ambitions: This Is an Important Year for India
(Biofuels International) This is an important year for India with the country holding the G20 presidency through to the end of November, giving the nation’s leaders several opportunities to help shape future policies and programmes across many sectors, including their already-declared
August 03, 2023 Read Full Article
Biotechnology Organization Lists Farm Bill Priorities
by Sabrina Halvorson (Southeast AgNet Radio Network) Farm Bill priorities for the biotech industry. That’s coming up on This Land of Ours. The Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) says the next Farm Bill offers opportunities to invest in long-term food security, climate resiliency, and growing the
August 02, 2023 Read Full Article
Iowa Ag Entrepreneur, Carbon Capture Pipeline Advocate Hosts Presidential Candidates
by Brianne Pfannenstiel and Donnelle Eller (Des Moines Register) A handful of Republican presidential candidates attended a private event this week hosted by Iowa agriculture entrepreneur and GOP donor Bruce Rastetter, who's behind Summit Carbon Solution's plan to build a controversial carbon capture
August 02, 2023 Read Full Article
Biden Administration Split over Ethanol's Role in Aviation Fuel Subsidy Program
by Jarrett Renshaw, Stephanie Kelly and Leah Douglas (Reuters) The Biden administration is divided over whether to grant a request from the U.S. biofuel industry that would make it easier for sustainable aviation fuel made from corn-based ethanol to qualify for
August 02, 2023 Read Full Article
Why FCI Stopped Rice Supply For Ethanol
by Sanjeeb Mukherjee (rediff.com) In a move that could impact India's ambitious ethanol blending petrol (EBP) programme, the Food Corporation of India (FCI) has stopped the supply of rice from its depots for ethanol production. About 100 distilleries across the country that
August 01, 2023 Read Full Article
GOBARdhan Initiative Begins Reaping Good Results & Stimulating Investments In Biogas Sector in India
(Ministry of Jal Shakti) Unified Registration Portal for GOBARdhan Witnesses Avid Enthusiasm From States/UTs And CBG/Biogas Operators/Investors; In Just 60 Days, Over 100 Under Construction Compressed Biogas Plants Registered On The Portal; Over 1200 Biogas Plants Spread Across 450 Districts of
August 01, 2023 Read Full Article
Sustainable Jet Fuel Tough for Indian Airlines: Boeing
by Anu Sharma (Mint) New Delhi: Adoption of green fuel by Indian airlines will be a key challenge for them considering the high cost structure associated with sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), a senior executive at Boeing said. “Indian Oil and a couple of
July 27, 2023 Read Full Article
Lowering Crop Production Emissions EWG: Common Practices Can Reduce GHG Emissions From Corn Production
by Chris Clayton (DTN Progressive Farmer) Environmental Working Group is touting six farming practices in the Corn Belt the group says could greatly reduce nitrous oxide emissions in crop production. EWG also wants to ensure $19.5 billion in funding for USDA conservation
July 26, 2023 Read Full Article
Crop Insurance Rules Challenge Airlines' Ambitious Biofuel Plans
by Jana Rose Schleis (Agri-Pulse) America’s airlines have ambitious plans for using more biofuel, and the feedstocks in their sights include obscure oilseed crops such as camelina. However, crop insurance policy stands in the way. READ MORE
July 26, 2023 Read Full Article
Duckworth Discusses Importance of Ethanol Production and Increased Use of U.S. Biofuels with Illinois Corn Growers Association, Renewable Fuels Association
(Office of Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)) U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today met with leaders and members of the Illinois Corn Growers Association as well as with members from the Renewable Fuels Association Board of Directors (RFA) to underscore her support for
July 24, 2023 Read Full Article
Renewable Diesel’s Uncertain Future
by Jacqueline Holland (Farm Progress) Farmers and the rest of the world want green energy. Is the U.S. government standing in the way? -- Greg Anderson was disheartened when the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced 2023-25 biofuel blending volumes in June. The
July 13, 2023 Read Full Article
USDA Helps Agricultural Producers Meet Demand for Camelina
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced today that it will expand insurance for camelina in direct response to the anticipated increase in demand for the crop for biofuel production. The USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) is expanding
July 12, 2023 Read Full Article
Demand for Biofuels Sparks Canadian Boom. But Will U.S. Subsidies Pull Investment South?
by Paula Duhatschek (CBC News) Canada's biofuel industry is seeing a major uptick in investment spurred on by growing global demand for biofuel and, in particular, the implementation of the country's new Clean Fuel Regulations. In recent years, much of the investment
July 12, 2023 Read Full Article
Ag Policy Blog: USDA Unveils $300M Greenhouse Gas Measurement, Monitoring Plan
by Jerry Hagstrom (DTN Progressive Farmer) Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack will announce Wednesday that USDA will spend $300 million to improve measurement, monitoring, reporting and verification of greenhouse gas emissions and carbon sequestration in climate-smart agriculture and forestry. The money will come from
July 12, 2023 Read Full Article
At Iowa Event, Trump Plans to Go after DeSantis over Ethanol
by Thomas Beaumont (Associated Press) Former President Donald Trump plans to headline his largest Iowa campaign event in nearly four months with a speech to thousands at an arena in the western part of the state. Trump will use his appearance in Council Bluffs on
July 08, 2023 Read Full Article
Carbon-Negative Bioenergy Technologies Gain Traction as a Climate Solution
by Brandon Mulder (S&P Global) Study suggests 500 mil mt/year of biomass feedstock; BECCS needs further policy support ... Ethanol production is the largest bioenergy activity in the US. For BECCS to scale to the levels the IPCC identified, the bioenergy industry
June 30, 2023 Read Full Article
Farmers Need More Incentives to Cut Emissions — Report
by Marc Heller (Politico Pro Greenwire) A consulting group's report said agricultural emissions need to be cut sharply — but with potential rewards for farmers — if the global temperature rise is to be held to 1.5 degrees Celsius. -- Agricultural
June 28, 2023 Read Full Article
Centre Extends Timeline for Disbursement of Loan/Completion of Ethanol Projects up to 30 Sep 2023.
(India Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution) Ethanol Production Capacity reaches all time highest to 1,244 Crore Litres; Record Distilleries Supply Over 310 Crore Liters of Ethanol to Oil market companies by 11th June 2023; Extended Timeline for Ethanol Projects Boosts
June 27, 2023 Read Full Article
House Energy Sub Committee Hearing on Affordable Fuels
(AgNewsWire) A House Energy and Commerce Sub Committee heard testimony this week on “Driving Affordability: Preserving People’s Freedom to Buy Affordable Vehicles and Fuel” regarding several bills related to lowering emissions from transportation vehicles. National Corn Growers Association CEO Neil Caskey testified in support of several bills
June 26, 2023 Read Full Article
Indonesia Plans to Hike Biodiesel Mandate in Next Few Years
(CNA/Reuters) Indonesia plans to raise its mandatory palm oil-based biodiesel blending to 40 per cent in the next few years, but for now will keep it unchanged at 35 per cent, the country's energy minister said on Monday. The world's biggest palm
June 26, 2023 Read Full Article
We Will Bring Vehicles that Will Run 100% on Ethanol Soon: Nitin Gadkari
(Business Standard) Toyota will launch Camry in August this year which will run 100% on ethanol. The car will also generate 40% electric power ... At an event, Gadkari said that the government is bringing vehicles that will not need petrol
June 26, 2023 Read Full Article
Are Biofuels Bad for the Environment?
by Charles H. Gessner, Neil Caskey, Suzy Friedman and Allen Schaeffer (New York Times) To the Editor: Re “A Climate Solution That’s Bad for the Climate,” by Michael Grunwald (Opinion guest essay, June 12): ... Michael Grunwald, not today’s farmers, seems mired in the “horse-and-buggy
June 26, 2023 Read Full Article
Illinois Gas Stations Have New Incentive to Sell Higher-Blend Ethanol
by Zeta Cross & Kevin Bessler (Illinois Radio Network/Advantage News) Tax incentives for retailers to sell gas with a higher ethanol blend is now law in Illinois. Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed Senate Bill 1963 that gives gas stations a 10% sales tax
June 26, 2023 Read Full Article
Governments of Canada and Manitoba Provide $2.9 Million over Two Years to Advance Manitoba as a Leader in Renewable Transportation Fuels
(Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada) Funding of design study for sustainable aviation fuel manufacturing facility supports local agriculture, sustainable decarbonization: Bibeau, Stefanson -- The Canada and Manitoba governments are committed to enhancing the province’s competitive advantages in leading-edge, value-added agricultural processing
June 22, 2023 Read Full Article
A Push to Turn Farm Waste into Fuel
(North America Climate Smart Agriculture Alliance) Biofuel plants and energy from on-farm biodigesters have been a part of the agricultural landscape for decades. But as the global climate continues to warm and as agriculture continues to face new challenges, bioenergy
June 21, 2023 Read Full Article
Soil Carbon Controversy: Unfounded Concerns or Healthy Skepticism?
(S&P Global Commodity Insights) Soil carbon credits have been gaining popularity in the US voluntary carbon market and Australia's compliance-based market, but there are numerous critics of this type of carbon credit. Soil carbon credits are generated through projects that enhance
June 16, 2023 Read Full Article
Inflation Reduction Act Boosts Renewable Energy and Biofuels Infrastructure
(Iowa Ag Connection) The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) of 2022 brings significant financial incentives to rural communities, aiming to promote renewable energy production and the transition to sustainable energy sources. Under the bill, approximately $11 billion has been allocated for rural
June 16, 2023 Read Full Article
Duckworth, Fischer, Ernst, Klobuchar, Grassley Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Solidify Future of American-Grown Sustainable Aviation Fuels
(Office of Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)) U.S. Senator and pilot Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation (CST) and Chair of the Subcommittee on Aviation Safety, Operations and Innovation—and U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) along
June 14, 2023 Read Full Article
Farmers, Educators Are Allies in Climate-Smart Agriculture
(Solutions from the Land) ... As co-developer and leader of the Cornell Climate Smart Farming program, (Allison) Chatrchyan is developing powerful and user-friendly tools to help farmers in the Northeast better see how climate change is expected to affect them and what
June 14, 2023 Read Full Article
Cargill Puts Missouri Bootheel Soy-Crush Project on Hold
by Ron Kotrba (Biobased Diesel Daily) Cargill has put its plans to build a new soybean-processing facility in Pemiscot County, Missouri, on hold, a Cargill representative confirmed with Biobased Diesel Daily®. ... In May 2022, Cargill made public its intention to build a
June 13, 2023 Read Full Article
Interview: Varying EU Ethanol Mandates Cloud Biofuel Demand Outlook: ePURE
by Thomas Washington and Harry Clyne (S&P Gobal) Prices likely rangebound through 2023 after 2022 spike; Advanced fuel production most efficient when derived from crop-based fuel -- Reliable demand forecasts for ethanol uptake in the EU are made harder by the piecemeal
June 06, 2023 Read Full Article
Illinois Lawmakers Approve Sales Tax Exemption for Ethanol Blends
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The Illinois legislature in May passed legislation that aims to boost the state’s corn industry by increasing the level of ethanol that must be blended into transportation fuel in order to be eligible for a
May 31, 2023 Read Full Article
NRDC: COVER Act Will Finally Make Cover Crop Benefits Accessible to All Farmers
(Natural Resources Defense Council) A key bicameral bill to incent the use of cover crops across the country was re-introduced today (May 18, 2023). The Conservation Opportunity and Voluntary Environment Resilience (COVER) Program Act, which would provide a $5 per
May 31, 2023 Read Full Article
The Midwest has the Key to Affordable Gas and Energy Independence
by Reps. Randy Feenstra (R-IOWA-4th) and Michelle Fischbach (R-MINN.-7th) (The Hill) Blessed with an abundant supply of domestic energy sources, American families should always have access to affordable gasoline 365 days a year. In the United States — where we
May 22, 2023 Read Full Article
Carbon’s Next Chapter on the Farm
by Margy Eckelkamp (AgWeb) A yet-to-be-realized provision in the Inflation Reduction Act could be the key for farmers to engage in measuring the carbon intensity (CI) of their grain. The Section 45Z tax credit provides biofuel producers (ethanol, biodiesel and sustainable
May 18, 2023 Read Full Article
New GHG Report Offers Ag a Look at Areas of Improvement, Progress
(Solutions from the Lane) ... The Inventory of U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Sinks, which has been published by the Environmental Protection Agency annually since 1990, offers a look at how U.S. industries—including agriculture—are doing on their emissions. For agriculture, the latest report,
May 17, 2023 Read Full Article
German Biofuel Industry in Jeopardy, and So Is Feed Production
(All about Feed) Germany mulls phasing out crop-based bioethanol production in the coming decade chasing a declared goal to fortify European and world’s food security. However, as market players reveal, the effect of the widely discussed reform is likely to be
May 17, 2023 Read Full Article
The Digest’s 2023 Multi-Slide Guide to USDA Rural Development
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) The Inflation Reduction Act provides nearly $40 billion for USDA over the next 10 years to improve life and livelihoods in rural communities. Specific investments include: $19.3 billion for climate-smart agriculture on farms, ranches, and
May 16, 2023 Read Full Article
Local View: Supporting Farmers, State
by Jan TenBensel (Lincoln Journal Star/Nebraska Ethanol Board) May and warm weather are officially here, bringing the beginning of driving season and, more importantly, Renewable Fuels Month. These two go hand in hand as the warm weather brings vacations and
May 16, 2023 Read Full Article
Sequestration in the Field
by Katie Schroeder (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Carbon intensity scores determine, in part, the value producers get for each gallon of ethanol they produce. Today’s CI calculations don’t factor in low-carbon farming practices, but industry leaders like Brian Jennings are determined
May 13, 2023 Read Full Article
Carbon’s Next Chapter on the Farm
by Margy Eckelkamp (Farm Journal AgWeb) ... The Section 45Z tax credit provides biofuel producers (ethanol, biodiesel and sustainable aviation fuel) with an incentive to produce low-emission fuels. What makes this different than carbon offset programs is it could provide a
May 11, 2023 Read Full Article
Sequestering Soil Organic Carbon: A Nitrogen Dilemma
by Jan Willem van Groenigen, Chris van Kessel, Bruce A. Hungate, Oene Oenema, David S. Powlson, and Kees Jan van Groenigen (Environ. Sci. Technol.) To slow down rising levels of atmospheric CO2, the “4 per 1000” (4p1000) initiative was launched at the
May 04, 2023 Read Full Article
EBP Goal. India Eyes Sugarcane Model to Raise Maize Output to Meet 20% Ethanol Blending Target
by Prabhudatta Mishra (The Hindu Business Line) The area under sugarcane has to increase, and the subsidised rice offered by FCI is not sustainable, says Food Secretary Sanjeev Chopra -- The Indian government may have to develop a sugarcane-type ecosystem
May 04, 2023 Read Full Article
Poland Publishes New Draft Biogas Act
(CMS Law-Now) On 5 April 2023, the first draft of a new legislation in Poland designed to facilitate the preparation and development of agricultural biogas projects was published on the government website. The aim of the new Biogas Act is to
April 28, 2023 Read Full Article
Sens. Marshall, Moran Join Colleagues in Urging Biden Administration to Strengthen Renewable Fuel Standard
(Office of Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kan.)) U.S. Senators Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kan.) Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) joined a bipartisan group of their colleagues in urging the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to strengthen the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). The senators are calling
April 27, 2023 Read Full Article
The Digest’s 2023 Multi-Slide Guide to Currently Used and Future Potential of Biomass Resources in the US
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) The Billion Ton 23 update is coming. BETO needs a comprehensive biomass resource assessment that is end-use agnostic — for example, MSW and microalgae numbers in BT16 do not represent current BETO Analysis. There is
April 27, 2023 Read Full Article
Solutions from the Land’s Global Work Program
(Solutions from the Land) ... Farmers, ranchers and foresters in the 21st century are being called upon to address hunger, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, sequester carbon, navigate and mitigate climate change, build soil health, clean up water sources, and produce clean
April 21, 2023 Read Full Article
US Carbon Capture Incentives Leave EU ‘Lagging Behind’, Biofuel Makers Warn
by Sean Goulding Carroll (EURACTIV.com) Efforts to boost carbon capture and storage (CCS) in Europe are insufficient according to biofuel makers, who say the United States offer better incentives. CCS sees carbon taken out of the atmosphere and injected underground, usually in
April 21, 2023 Read Full Article
Debt Ceiling Debate Draws in Biofuels
by Chris Clayton (DTN Progressive Farmer) Debt-Limit Bill Would Repeal Biofuel and Renewable Energy Tax Credits --The federal debt-limit bill dropped Wednesday by House Speaker Kevin McCarthy would repeal several tax credits for the biofuels industry, including tax credits for
April 21, 2023 Read Full Article
As Summer Travel Approaches, Davids Takes Several Actions to Lower Gas Prices in Kansas
(Office of Representative Sharice Davids (D-KS3rd)) ... Today (April 19, 2023), Representative Sharice Davids took official actions to lower the cost of gas for Kansans, advocating for immediate and long-term solutions through the year-round sale of fuel blended with higher
April 20, 2023 Read Full Article
U.S. Pushes Farmers to Develop A New Crop: Energy
by Keith Schneider (Circle of Blue) ... Despite pushback from environmental groups concerned about increased water pollution from a new tide of farm wastes, developers across the country see opportunities to build ambitious renewable energy projects to convert crops and
April 19, 2023 Read Full Article
Biofuels Growth Is about 'Adding Value' for Farmers and Communities
by Jenny Schlecht (AgWeb) North Dakota has three soybean crush plants in the works. Those largely will produce soybean meal for animal feed. But a big and growing piece of the puzzle is biofuels made from soybean oil. ... The region — and
April 18, 2023 Read Full Article
Big Week for Ag: Hearings Set on EPA Rules, Farm Bill
by Marc Heller (E&E News) The House Agriculture Committee will question EPA Administrator Michael Regan on agency actions affecting farmers and ranchers as other panels keep crafting the new farm bill. EPA Administrator Michael Regan will make his first visit to
April 17, 2023 Read Full Article
Biofuel Policies and the Current Food Crisis
by Joseph Glauber and Charlotte Hebebrand (International Food Policy Research Institute/Daily Star) ... Despite the recurring food versus fuel debate and criticism expressed during previous price spikes, biofuel policies have grown in popularity. That growth will likely continue. The International Energy Agency
April 14, 2023 Read Full Article
Clean Fuels Applauds Senate Letter Urging Stronger RFS Volumes
(Clean Fuels Alliance America/Biobased Diesel Daily) Clean Fuels Alliance America applauded a bipartisan letter from 16 U.S. senators April 14 that calls on U.S. EPA to increase volumes for advanced biofuels and biomass-based diesel as it finalizes Renewable Fuel Standard volumes
April 14, 2023 Read Full Article
Michigan Bill Aims to Create Clean Fuel, Clean Energy Standards
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Michigan state democrats, led by Senate Majority Floor Leader Sam Singh and Sen. Sue Shink, on April 12 introduced the Clean Energy Future Plan, a bill package that aims to implement a wide range of
April 14, 2023 Read Full Article
The Digest’s 2023 Multi-Slide Guide to USDA Rural Business – Cooperatives Service
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) USDA’s Rural Business-Cooperative Service offers loan guarantees, grants, and technical assistance support of the bioeconomy and access to capital for Commercialization of emerging technologies; Production of biofuels and renewable chemicals and manufacturing of biobased products;
April 13, 2023 Read Full Article
New Cane Variety Developed Jointly by TNAU and ICAR Sugarcane Breeding Institute in Coimbatore in High Demand
(The Hindu Bureau) ... Owing to the ethanol policy, the sugar mills are gradually coming out of red, and are able to settle pending dues to the farmers, banking on the most productive varieties of sugarcane. Of the nearly 375 tonnes
April 12, 2023 Read Full Article
USDA: Anaerobic Digestion Can Help Increase Value of Manure
by Erin Voegele (Biomass Magazine) The USDA’s Economic Research Service in March published a report that aims to help increase the value of animal manure for farmers. The document, in part, describes existing and emerging technologies that have the potential to
April 10, 2023 Read Full Article
BETO Releases New Multi-Year Program Plan
by Valerie Sarisky-Reed (U.S. Department of Energy) I am proud to announce the release of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Bioenergy Technologies Office’s (BETO) new Multi-Year Program Plan (MYPP). The MYPP details our mission, goals, and strategies to enable the widespread adoption
April 10, 2023 Read Full Article
ACE Fly-in Gives Lawmakers Ethanol Education
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa is possibly the biggest supporter of ethanol in Congress, but he can always use more information to share with his colleagues who may disagree. During the American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) Fly-in this week,
April 07, 2023 Read Full Article
APHIS Announces Draft Modified Microorganisms Guide Available for Public Comment [open for comment through May 22, 2023]
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is sharing a draft guide detailing the information requirements and process for submitting permit applications for microorganisms developed using genetic engineering and inviting public
April 07, 2023 Read Full Article
Biodiesel Sector Faces an Uncertain Future
(Irish Farmers Journal) The government has done a U-turn on controversial new proposals which would have given a competitive advantage to imported Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil over Irish biodiesel, writes Stephen Robb. READ MORE IrBEA welcomes provision for Irish-produced biofuels in newly
April 06, 2023 Read Full Article
Battle Brews over Climate Law Credits for Aviation Biofuels
by Brian Dabbs (E&E News Energywire) The Inflation Reduction Act is setting up a fight over the climate footprint of biofuels for aviation, with significant implications for the nation’s emissions trajectory, the U.S. transportation sector and rural communities. In coming weeks, the
April 05, 2023 Read Full Article
The Next Farm Bill Could Be a Historic Climate Law – if Congress Can Agree on It
by Max Graham (Grist) Will the legislation help turn agriculture, a climate problem, into a climate solution? ... But environmental groups and some farmer advocacy organizations are lobbying Congress to turn this year’s bill — due for an update by October —
April 04, 2023 Read Full Article
USDA Under Secretary Stresses Support for Ethanol
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) USDA Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation Robert Bonnie spent an hour with members of the American Coalition for Ethanol last week, answering questions on various topics and stressing the administration’s support for biofuels. “I hope you know this
April 04, 2023 Read Full Article
Farmers Must Be at the Center of New, International Work on Climate Action
(Solutions from the Land) The proposals are in. The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change has closed its submission period for recommendations on how to structure the four-year Sharm el-Sheikh joint work on implementation of climate action on agriculture and food
April 03, 2023 Read Full Article
Rep. Schrier Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Aid Biofuel Research and Development
by Adrian Cortez (Office of Rep. Kim Schrier D-WA/Quad City Herald) U.S. Representatives Kim Schrier, M.D. (D-WA), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA) and Chellie Pingree (D-ME) introduced the Biochar Research Network Act of 2023 to increase research funding for biochar on March 21. Biochar is a charcoal-like product created by
March 30, 2023 Read Full Article
GAO: Federal Agencies Should Track Progress toward SAF Goals
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The U.S. Government Accountability Office on March 27 issued a report that includes recommendations on how three federal agencies can track progress related to the Biden administration’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel Grand Challenge. ... As part of
March 29, 2023 Read Full Article
The Agriculture Resilience Act: Rep. Pingree Reintroduces Bill to Put U.S. on Path to Net-Zero Agriculture Emissions
(Office of Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-ME 1st)) Farming has always been a risky business. But today, extreme weather events and trade wars are creating challenges that threaten food production and jeopardize farmers’ livelihoods. We must work to keep farmers on the
March 28, 2023 Read Full Article
Is Green Methanol an Alternative to CO2 Pipelines?
by Erin Jordan (The Gazette) Several Iowa farmers are optimistic CapCO2 could ‘solve the pipeline issue’ -- Some renewable fuels advocates say carbon dioxide pipelines are the only way to save Iowa’s ethanol industry, but Jeff Reints doesn’t buy it. Especially not
March 28, 2023 Read Full Article
Everything, Everywhere, All At Once: The African Bio-Economy Story
by Douglas L. Faulkner and Gerard J. Ostheimer (Biofuels Digest) With a nod to the Oscar winning movie of the same name, we want to convey a sense of where the African Bioeconomy is now, where it could be headed, and
March 28, 2023 Read Full Article
Minnesota Seeks to Regulate Neonic Seed -- Nebraska Ethanol Plant Environmental Disaster Sparks Treated-Seed Bill in Minnesota
by Todd Neeley (DTN Progressive Farmer) The environmental disaster at a former ethanol plant in Mead, Nebraska, has sparked concern in other states -- most recently in Minnesota. A Minnesota legislative committee held a hearing Wednesday on a bill that would ban
March 27, 2023 Read Full Article
Ag Policy Blog: Despite Ethanol Industry Concerns, Iowa House Votes to Restrict Carbon Pipelines
by Chris Clayton (DTN Progressive Farmer) In one of the most heated political battles in the state, the Iowa House of Representatives on March 22 voted against the interests of the state's biofuels industry in a 71-20 vote to tighten rules