“I can’t think of anyone who has been more influential in the technical aspects of biodiesel use and the development of biodiesel standards than Steve Howell,” said Teresa Alleman, D02 First Vice-Chair and Quality Specialist at HF Sinclair Midstream. “His tireless efforts, and unique ability to develop a consensus among parties, that are in many cases diametrically opposed, places him in a very special group of people. The Eagle Award is one of the highest honors from ASTM, and this recognition is well-deserved.”

Howell said activity on fuel quality standards for biodiesel blends over B20 (20% biodiesel)—and the research and technical data to support them—is at an all-time high. The recent increase stems from the need to lower the total metals and phosphorus levels in B100 (100% biodiesel) to maintain support for B20 in today’s diesel engines as well as the new aftertreatment systems slated for introduction in 2027.

“Clean Fuels, the national trade association representing biodiesel, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel, heavily invested in the engine testing that provided the data we used to ballot a new low metals grade into ASTM D6751, the standard for biodiesel,” said Howell. “That testing showed B20 with lower metals had no adverse effects on NOx and aftertreatment systems over the full useful life of diesel engines, which is increasing to 435,000 miles.”

Efforts to maximize lifecycle carbon emission reductions using existing diesel equipment is also driving interest in higher biodiesel blends. The latest advancement, an update to the specification for fuel use in marine transportation, now covers biodiesel blends up to B100. ISO 8217:2024 was achieved through extensive collaboration between industry stakeholders and technical experts. Howell said as they continue to secure technical data for higher biodiesel blends, the task force will ballot standards covering up to B100 for all diesel applications.

Contact: Heather Buechter, 479-651-7301, hbuechter@cleanfuels.org

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By adopting the updated spec, ISO aims to facilitate the integration of low-carbon liquid fuels including biodiesel into the marine fuel supply chain, contributing to greater greenhouse gas emissions reductions and supporting efforts to combat climate change.

ISO 8217:2024 ensures that biodiesel blends up to 100% meet rigorous performance standards, maintaining engine efficiency and reliability. The specification addresses critical parameters such as viscosity, flash point, and sulfur content, guaranteeing that biodiesel blends perform on par with conventional marine fuels.

“With the adoption of this updated specification, we are paving the way for higher blends of biodiesel use in marine transportation,” said Scott Fenwick, Technical Director at Clean Fuels Alliance America. “Biodiesel offers a viable solution for reducing emissions now while promoting sustainability on a global scale.”

The approval of ISO 8217:2024 is the result of extensive collaboration between industry stakeholders and technical experts to ensure that the spec meets the practical needs of the maritime sector while supporting a changing regulatory environment.

Contact: Heather Buechter, 479-651-7301, hbuechter@cleanfuels.org

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The Clean Fuels Governing Board appointed Courtney Lawrenson, Vice President – Oils and Energy at AGP, as Second Vice-Chair succeeding Gary Louis who recently retired from his role with Seaboard Energy. Lawrenson brings a wealth of expertise as Second Vice-Chair with over a decade of experience in the clean fuels industry, serving as a board member since 2022.

Clean Fuels praised Louis for his years of service to the industry during his tenure as President and CEO of Seaboard Energy and wishes him well in his retirement.

Peter Ostenfeld-Rosenthal, incoming President and CEO at Seaboard Energy, joins the board as a new member filling a void left by Louis’ retirement. Following an impressive career as an oil and gas executive, Ostenfeld-Rosenthal most recently served as Vice President of Operations at Seaboard, where he led a renewable diesel refinery and two biodiesel plants, among other organizational assets. His dedication to building a framework that supports operational excellence will aid in the success of Clean Fuels as the association continues toward its vision of reaching six billion gallons by 2030.

Additionally, Kerry Fogarty, Quality Control Manager at Incobrasa Industries, Ltd. joined the board filling a vacancy left by Danielle Brannen’s resignation. With over 25 years of experience in the soybean crushing industry, Fogarty’s extensive industry knowledge and commitment to biodiesel quality will undoubtedly contribute to the organization’s strategic direction and efforts to promote the use of clean fuels.

“We are thrilled to have Courtney step into the role of Second Vice-Chair and welcome Peter and Kerry to our esteemed Governing Board,” said Donnell Rehagen, Clean Fuels CEO. “Their leadership and dedication will be invaluable as we continue to advance the interests of biodiesel, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel.”

In the past eight months, Clean Fuels has also welcomed several new members who share a commitment to sustainable industry growth. These include:

• Alliance Technical Group: With more than 1,400 specialists located in 40-plus offices nationwide, Alliance provides premier technical solutions to support the full spectrum of our customers’ environmental needs.
• North Carolina Soybean Producers Association: The Qualified State Soybean Board to administer soybean checkoff-funded programs in North Carolina.
• Nuseed: A global leader in the development and commercialization of sustainable oilseed crops for renewable fuels.
• PepsiCo: A multinational food and beverage corporation committed to reducing its carbon footprint through sustainable fuel initiatives.
• RenStar, LLC: An innovative company specializing in renewable energy solutions, including biodiesel and renewable diesel.
• RICHARD: The industry leader in the engineering, design, and construction of the largest Renewable Diesel projects in the U.S. to date.
• Westmor Industries: A renowned manufacturer of equipment for the storage, transportation, and distribution of renewable fuels.
• WayTrade: A forward-thinking logistics company dedicated to maximizing the distribution of renewable fuels.

These new members join Clean Fuels at a pivotal time for the industry, as companies continue to search for cleaner alternatives to traditional fossil fuels to decarbonize heavy-duty transportation sectors.

“We are witnessing unprecedented growth driven by increasing awareness of the environmental and economic benefits of our fuels,” remarked Rehagen. “Our Governing Board and our members play a vital role in advocating for policies that support this growth and drive innovation in clean fuel technologies.”

Contact: Heather Buechter, 479-651-7301, hbuechter@cleanfuels.org

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“The journey into biomass-based diesel is not just a career choice for me, it’s a personal commitment to environmental stewardship and the promotion of sustainable alternatives,” Adhikari wrote in his application. “My experience has taught me that the intersection of technology and alternative fuels is where innovation thrives, and it is this intersection that I aim to explore and contribute to in my future endeavors.”

The Beth Calabotta Sustainable Education Grant was established to help deserving students interested in clean fuels, science and research. The grant honors scientist and past Foundation director Beth Calabotta. Her legacy and dedication to biodiesel sustainability made a tremendous impact on the industry.

“First offered in 2018, this grant continues Beth’s efforts to encourage students in science and research,” said Tom Verry, executive director of the Clean Fuels Alliance Foundation. “Pranab’s passion, dedication and ongoing work in the field showcases exactly what this grant was meant to support. Beth would be proud.”

About the Beth Calabotta Sustainable Education Grant
Beth had an unquenchable love for agriculture and life-sciences. Later in her career, Calabotta’s efforts focused almost solely on the development of biofuels as viable energy alternatives to conventional fuels. Based on Calabotta’s work, the Foundation and the Clean Fuels Alliance America Board want to continue building on the idea that adopting innovative technologies and diversifying markets will produce environmental benefits that can be documented through research and data.

About the Clean Fuels Alliance Foundation
The Foundation works closely with Clean Fuels Alliance America to address national issues affecting us all — cleaner air, greater economic development for rural communities and enhanced national security through energy independence. Organized in 1994, the mission of the Foundation is to accomplish outreach, education, research, and demonstration activities for the advancement of biodiesel, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuels. For more information, visit the Clean Fuels Alliance Foundation website.

Contact: Tom Verry, tverry@cleanfuels.org.

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FORT WORTH, TX – Clean Fuels Alliance America welcomed nearly 850 attendees from over 20 countries to connect with key players from the biodiesel, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel industries at the Clean Fuels Conference in Fort Worth, Texas. The conference encompassed a week’s worth of expert sessions, exhibits and showcases highlighting an era of growth in the clean fuels markets for land, sea and sky.

“This year’s conference offered an ideal setting to unite on the mission and vision so critical to our success,” said Clean Fuels CEO Donnell Rehagen. “As our industry continues to evolve, it will be even more important that we remain together and focused on issues that move us forward. The strength of connected energies was evident last week, and we look forward to harnessing that same momentum in 2025.”

Companies including BNSF Railway, Union Pacific, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines and PepsiCo took the main stage to discuss their sustainability goals and how clean fuels are moving the needle to reach them. Breakout sessions highlighted the federal and state regulations forging the shift to renewable fuels as well as the investments and innovation in feedstock availability through climate-smart agriculture and used cooking oil collection.

OEM operators took attendees behind the scenes to explain how they are embracing the challenge of decarbonization and securing approvals to ensure liquid fuels continue to play a pivotal role in powering heavy-duty machinery. Attendees were able to see some of this colossal machinery powered by biodiesel during a vehicle showcase and happy hour at Fort Worth’s iconic Ashton Depot.

The final session of the conference emphasized the importance of partnerships throughout the supply chain moving the industry forward. Participants departed with renewed inspiration and a shared commitment to advancing the global transition to cleaner energy and fewer emissions. The connections forged during the event will serve as catalysts for continued progress in the pursuit of a more sustainable future.

Save the date for the next Clean Fuels Conference taking place in San Diego, California on Jan. 20-23, 2025.

For more information about the conference and to access highlights and photos, visit CleanFuelsConference.org.

Contact: Heather Buechter, hbuechter@cleanfuels.org, 479-651-7301.

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FORT WORTH, TX – The Clean Fuels Conference once again serves as the epicenter for innovation and sustainability within the energy sector as it celebrates the exceptional achievements of industry leaders and visionaries this week. The annual Clean Fuels Awards honor the outstanding contributions of a diverse group of individuals and organizations who have demonstrated a commitment to advancing biodiesel, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel.

“Our success relies on the dedication of these advocates who unite us as one robust and cohesive industry,” commended Donnell Rehagen, CEO at Clean Fuels Alliance America. “We are thankful for their forward-thinking leadership that continues to advance fuels that are better, cleaner, and available now.”

The 2024 Clean Fuels Awards honorees are:

Industry Partnership Award: ASTM International 

ASTM International, the globally recognized standards development organization, will receive the Industry Partnership Award for its ongoing collaboration with the Clean Fuels’ technical team and the greater fuels industry to regularly revise and improve fuel standards, including ASTM D6751, the specification for biodiesel.

ASTM standards are designed to enhance product quality, safety, and performance across various industries. The committees within ASTM take a consensus-driven approach that involves stakeholders from the industry, government, academia, and other sectors, working together to create standards that facilitate innovation, ensure product reliability, and support global trade.

In 2023, the committee responsible for the standards on petroleum products, liquid fuels, and lubricants (D02) recognized D6751 as one of the top eight most influential standards ever produced by ASTM thanks to rigorous cooperative research efforts and its positive results. The most recent revision included the addition of a new low-metals (LM) grade of biodiesel, leading to higher blend-use approvals from original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). Thanks to these ongoing efforts, biodiesel is considered a premium product that enhances performance while reducing greenhouse gas emissions in compression ignition (diesel) engines.

Impact Award: John Bullock, Darling Ingredients 

John Bullock, Executive Vice President – Chief Strategy Officer for Darling Ingredients, will receive the Impact Award for his years of dedication to expanding opportunities for the rendering industry. Darling is a world leader in “upcycling” animal byproducts to their highest value through the creation of new markets including renewable fuels. With a passion for agriculture, Bullock spearheaded Darling’s entry into the renewable diesel market in 2013, aiming to optimize the utility of its waste fats. In collaboration with its 50/50 joint venture, Diamond Green Diesel, the company has transformed into a major player in the global renewable diesel market and is poised to become a leading producer of sustainable aviation fuel.

Bullock began his career at General Mills in 1978 in ingredient purchasing and risk management and plans to retire on Feb. 15, 2024. Thanks to his tenacity throughout his career, the rendering industry has entered new markets, created new products and grown tremendously. His leadership has laid a strong foundation for the continued growth and success of clean fuels.

Inspiration Award: PepsiCo

PepsiCo, Inc., the multinational food and beverage company, will receive the Inspiration Award, honoring its steadfast progress in decarbonizing one of the largest private fleets in North America.

In 2021, PepsiCo announced its commitment to a strategic end-to-end transformation with sustainability at the center of company growth with the introduction of its PepsiCo Positive (pep+) initiative. As part of its broader sustainability goals, the company has set targets to reduce its carbon footprint and increase environmental efficiency by reaching net-zero emissions by 2040.

To meet its climate ambitions with a complex fleet operation, PepsiCo has turned to renewable sources including investments in alternative fuels to decarbonize and enhance operational efficiency. The company is taking an innovative approach to employ widespread use of renewable diesel for its California operations and uses biodiesel blends in other parts of the country. PepsiCo also has a partnership with Optimus Technologies for a B100 pilot project. 

Leveraging PepsiCo’s expansive reach, the shift to renewable energy within all facets of the company’s owned and regulated operations, franchise endeavors, and third-party involvements could lead to a substantial decrease of around 2.5 million metric tons of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by the year 2040. This reduction is equivalent to removing over half a million cars from the roads for an entire year.

“These distinguished recipients have demonstrated unparalleled dedication and vision, embodying the spirit of innovation that defines the clean fuels industry,” said Rehagen. “Clean Fuels extends its congratulations to all the awardees, acknowledging their invaluable contributions to the advancement of biodiesel, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel.”

To learn more or register for the conference, visit CleanFuelsConference.org.

Contact: Heather Buechter, hbuechter@cleanfuels.org, 479-651-7301.

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In a groundbreaking collaboration, entertainment icon Donnie Wahlberg and Clean Fuels create a powerful campaign to raise awareness about the transformative benefits of Bioheat® fuel

Donnie Wahlberg visits his childhood home in Dorchester, MA

JEFFERSON CITY, MO – Acclaimed actor and Boston native Donnie Wahlberg is joining forces with Clean Fuels Alliance America in a dynamic campaign to raise awareness about Bioheat® fuel, an eco-friendly and sustainable home heating solution derived from plants, including soybeans. Wahlberg, known for his deep ties to the Boston community, is excited to champion this initiative, reconnecting with his roots and promoting a cleaner future for the Northeast.

Bioheat® fuel is a renewable energy source that blends traditional heating oil with biodiesel, significantly reducing carbon emissions and environmental impact. Wahlberg’s partnership with Clean Fuels is driven by a shared commitment to promoting sustainable energy solutions and fostering environmental responsibility.

“We are honored and excited to have Donnie Wahlberg join forces with Clean Fuels in our mission to promote sustainable energy solutions,” said Clean Fuels CEO Donnell Rehagen. “Donnie’s involvement adds a powerful voice to our campaign, bringing attention to the positive impact of Bioheat® fuel on both a local and global scale. We believe that together, we can inspire positive change and encourage individuals to make the switch to cleaner, more sustainable heating options.”

“I have two sons. When they come to Boston to visit my family, and they see that big oil tank in the basement, they are like, ‘What is this?’ How great is it that I can now tell them, ‘You know what’s in there, vegetable oil,’” said Wahlberg. “It’s changing right under our noses we just have to realize that it’s right there. To know that my kids know that I am from an older generation, even though I don’t look it, but I care, and I’m doing my part to help protect their future and their children’s future and that means everything to me.”

Visit mybioheat.com to learn state-specific information about the benefits of Bioheat® fuel. The site also offers resources, educational materials and details on how individuals can make the switch to Bioheat® fuel for their heating needs. Visit ussoy.org to learn about how soy empowers sustainable solutions in food, feed, fuel and as alternatives to industrial ingredients formerly derived from fossil fuels.

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About U.S. Soy
Representing the positive global human impact of soy grown in the United States, the U.S. Soy brand carries forward soy’s promise to transform global nutrition, provide climate-forward solutions, and support progress for people and their communities around the world. U.S. Soy is powered by the innovation of the industry; the unsurpassed quality, reliability, and sustainability of the soybeans grown by our farming families who invest through checkoff dollars; and the commitment of the organizations that raise awareness, build demand, develop new markets, and discover new uses for soy and soy products.

Contact: Heather Buechter, hbuechter@cleanfuels.org, 479-651-7301.

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JEFFERSON CITY, MO – Clean Fuels Alliance America is proud to announce the launch of its new podcast covering all aspects of the biodiesel, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel industries. The Better. Cleaner. Now! Podcast provides a unique opportunity to dive deeper into the clean fuels industry and expertise from Clean Fuels’ program managers.

Throughout the podcast series, you’ll hear authentic conversations featuring the dynamic benefits of biodiesel, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel. Episodes will feature third-party testimonials, insights from members, industry experts and more.

“This project really has been a labor of love from our staff since its inception,” said Clean Fuels CEO Donnell Rehagen. “Thanks to their perseverance and the support of our Governing Board, we are excited to be able to share our stories and intel on an industry that we are deeply passionate about.”

A new episode of The Better. Cleaner. Now! Podcast will drop every Wednesday and is available wherever you get your podcasts. In episode one, The Benefits Keep Growing, Rehagen joins Heather Buechter, Director of Communications, to preview the groundwork being laid to exceed the association’s vision of reaching 6 billion gallons by 2030.

Clean Fuels remains optimistic that as the year progresses, the program will continue to build on its first-quarter success supporting the transition to better, cleaner fuels and developing new market opportunities for the industry.

If you have an industry expert or topic you think should be included on the podcast, please email hbuechter@cleanfuels.org.

Contact: Heather Buechter, hbuechter@cleanfuels.org, 479-651-7301.

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ASTM, the globally recognized leader responsible for standardizations used around the world, presents the Scroll of Achievement to individuals who have shown exceptional commitment to the development and delivery of standards within their respective committees. This esteemed accolade underscores Fenwick’s long career in advancing the clean fuels industry, especially through his work with D6751, the ASTM specification for biodiesel.

Since 1998, Fenwick has served on various subcommittees within D02 leading numerous working group activities and interlaboratory studies, and receiving multiple awards in Excellence, Appreciation and Society Service. In 2018, Fenwick was appointed chairman of the D02 Committee, serving over 2,500 members who oversee more than 800 standards relating to petroleum products and lubricants.

During Fenwick’s tenure as chair of the D02 Committee, D6751 was recognized as one of the top eight most influential standards ever produced by ASTM thanks to rigorous cooperative research efforts and its positive results. The most recent approval included the addition of a new low-metals (LM) grade of biodiesel, leading to higher blend-use approvals from original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).

“Scott’s passion for advancing clean fuels and his dedication to driving standards within the D02 Committee have been instrumental in shaping the future of our industry,” said Donnell Rehagen, CEO of Clean Fuels. “This Scroll of Achievement award demonstrates the influence he has had on the biodiesel community.”

Fenwick expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating the award reflects the collective efforts of the entire D02 Committee and the commitment of Clean Fuels to fostering excellence in biomass-based diesel standards.

Alyson Fick, ASTM Standards Development Manager said Fenwick’s leadership and vision align seamlessly with the organization’s mission to improve product quality and build consumer confidence. “This award serves as a testament to Scott’s impact on the liquid fuels industry, and we anticipate ongoing benefits from his years of dedication to ASTM,” she said.

In addition to his role with ASTM, Fenwick also serves as a member of the International Organization for Standardization and the Canadian General Standards Board.

About ASTM International:
Committed to serving global societal needs, ASTM International positively impacts public health and safety, consumer confidence, and overall quality of life. We integrate consensus standards – developed with our international membership of volunteer technical experts – and innovate services to improve lives… Helping our world work better.

Contact: Heather Buechter, hbuechter@cleanfuels.org, 479-651-7301.

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Vergara has an accomplished career in the clean fuels industry with nearly four decades of experience. He currently manages the West Coast office in Sacramento, California, and leads the team responsible for government affairs in all 50 states.

Prior to joining Clean Fuels in 2019, Vergara served as Chief and Assistant Chief in the Industrial Strategies Division and Research Division at the California Air Resources Board (CARB). During his career at CARB, he oversaw key climate change and air quality programs, including the Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS). He continued that decarbonization strategy with Clean Fuels both as Director of State Regulatory Affairs and then Director of State Governmental Affairs.

Throughout Vergara’s tenure, the state affairs team helped establish and strengthen policies such as California’s LCFS, Oregon’s similar Clean Fuels Program and Washington’s new Clean Fuels Standard.

Highlights include:

• In California, the biodiesel and renewable diesel market has grown from 855M gallons in 2020 to 1.67B gallons in 2022 (on track to reach nearly 1.9B gallons in 2023), a 95% increase; in Oregon, clean fuels have experienced a 30% growth in the same span.
  
• After years of hard work, the state affairs team assisted in establishing the Clean Fuel Standard in Washington state in 2021, which is expected to grow the market for alternative fuels like biodiesel and renewable diesel similar to California and Oregon.
  
• There has been tremendous growth in all feedstocks used to produce clean fuels. For example, soy-based biodiesel and renewable diesel grew in California from 3M gallons in 2020 to 247M gallons in 2022 (on track to reach 324M gallons in 2023). Fuels made from used cooking oil, tallow and inedible corn oil have experienced similar growth.

“The talented state affairs team at Clean Fuels continues to work hard to establish similar programs in New York, New Jersey, New Mexico, Colorado and other states pursuing transportation decarbonization strategies,” said Vergara. “But it’s not just about low carbon fuel programs; our efforts are multi-pronged, and we continue working hard to deploy/expand Bioheat® fuel use in the Northeast and incentive programs for our fuels in the Midwest.”

Under the direction of Vergara, Trinity Consultants conducted the landmark Health Benefits Study. The research quantified health impacts associated with switching to B100, or 100% biodiesel, from petroleum diesel and confirmed what our industry has known for years – biodiesel has proven positive health benefits.

“Floyd’s leadership and experience has made a tremendous impact on the acceptance and growth of our fuels,” said Clean Fuels CEO Donnell Rehagen. “We are fortunate to have had Floyd’s level of commitment to helping states pursue aggressive decarbonization goals and are pleased that he will continue to contribute to our efforts going forward in a senior advisory capacity.”

Vergara said the clean fuels industry has a positive narrative that is unmatched by any other fuel. “I’m proud of and very thankful to Clean Fuels, its members and partner soy associations for what we’ve been able to accomplish with their support at the state level to further that narrative,” he said. “I look forward to seeing even more success as I head into retirement after a long career in the low-carbon fuels space.”

Clean Fuels is pleased to announce that Jeff Earl, Director of State Regulatory Affairs, will assume the position of Director of State Governmental Affairs upon Vergara’s departure. Earl will continue to serve the industry from Clean Fuels Alliance America’s headquarters in Jefferson City, Missouri.

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