Katherine Reed, Author at Clean Fuels Alliance America https://cleanfuels.org/author/katherine-reed/ Wed, 19 Jun 2024 19:15:35 +0000 en-US hourly 1 ASTM International Honors Steve Howell with Prestigious Eagle Award https://cleanfuels.org/astm-international-honors-steve-howell-with-prestigious-eagle-award/ Wed, 19 Jun 2024 04:14:45 +0000 https://cleanfuels.org/iso-publishes-updated-fuel-specification-for-marine-applications-including-b100-approval-copy/ Award recognizes major specification efforts to support biodiesel use in new diesel technology

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JEFFERSON CITY, MO – Clean Fuels Alliance America proudly announces that Steve Howell, MARC-IV (M4) Consulting, was honored with the prestigious Eagle Award at the semi-annual ASTM International D02 Committee meetings in Austin, Texas this week. The Eagle Award honors sustained multiple and significant contributions to the standardization process in ASTM D02 Committee and subcommittees. Howell has spearheaded technical efforts on behalf of the biodiesel industry since its inception in the mid-1990s. As Chair of the Biodiesel Task Force since 1994, he’s been instrumental in securing consensus fuel standards for biodiesel in diesel or home heating oil applications for ASTM and the International Standards Organization (ISO).

“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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New Markets Provide Sunnier Outlook For Clean Fuels https://cleanfuels.org/new-markets-provide-sunnier-outlook-for-clean-fuels/ Fri, 07 Jun 2024 07:00:33 +0000 https://cleanfuels.org/pepsicos-efforts-to-decarbonize-north-americas-largest-private-fleet-copy/ Jonathan Martin, Clean Fuels Director of Economics and Market Analytics, discusses new markets rapidly coming online providing a sunnier outlook for the years ahead.

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By Jonathan Martin, Director of Economics and Market Analytics at Clean Fuels Alliance America
Published in Biodiesel Magazine | Summer Issue

Tremendous growth in the biomass-based diesel industry should be celebrated by producers and farmers, as well as those who enjoy breathing cleaner air and lower greenhouse gas emissions. However, that growth coupled with disappointing Renewable Fuel Standard volumes set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency have put stress on the industry. Despite the current storm created by these conditions, new markets rapidly coming online provide a sunnier outlook for the years ahead.

In 2023, biomass-based diesel (BBD) consumption reached just under 4.6 billion gallons. Out of total diesel fuel consumed in the United States in 2023, BBD accounted for around 8%, a significant growth from recent years (approx. 5.5% in 2022). The U.S. Energy Information Agency’s most recent data, which is current through February, shows biodiesel production capacity has remained relatively steady at 2.1 billion gallons per year (BGY), while renewable diesel capacity has expanded up to 3.9 BGY (from 2.2 BGY as recent as October 2022). The main driver for this growth continues to be states with a Low Carbon Fuel Standard. California’s market remains strong, with consumption making up approximately 60% of its entire diesel pool.

Looking forward, renewable diesel capacity expansions and greenfield projects are continuing well into 2024 and parts of 2025. Currently, around 1.65 BGY of renewable diesel production capacity is expected by the end of 2025 in the U.S., with an additional 300 million gallons per year (MMgy) sanctioned in Canada. Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) projects also continue apace, with an approximate 600 MMgy of production capacity expected by the end of 2025, with the majority of near-term growth coming from the familiar hydroprocessed esters and fatty acids (HEFA) production pathway.

This unprecedented growth eclipsed what the EPA forecasted, greatly exceeding the set rule for 2023. When the set rule was released in June 2023, it was readily apparent that BBD would easily outpace the D4 volume.

LCFS credit prices across the West Coast are also down from recent highs. Recently, there has been huge growth in credit generation, led by BBD, renewable natural gas and electrical vehicle adoption. Looking at the California LCFS, there is currently over 23 million metric tons of LCFS credits in the California credit bank. This is significantly pulling LCFS credit prices down. This is not only occurring in California but in all LCFS states, just not to the same degree.

Although these lower credit prices are concerning for producers, there is reason for hope with growing demand. New markets have been developing in recent years, due to many corporate initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lower their collective carbon footprint. Both the rail and maritime industries are primed and ready to begin their transition to lower-carbon fuel sources. Both biodiesel and renewable diesel fit perfectly into their corporate structures, as they can be used as drop-in fuels.

An estimated 80% of the world’s goods are transported by sea, making low-carbon fuel critical for corporations that have made aggressive carbon reduction commitments. Biodiesel sales in marine markets are growing rapidly throughout the world, with B24 blends being sold in high quantities in Singapore and high quantities of B30 blends being sold in northwest Europe.

These companies would like to increase their uptake in biodiesel and renewable diesel blends in the U.S., a 7-billion-gallon market, but there are some hurdles—namely, the inability for ocean-going vessels to get the benefits of renewable identification numbers (RINs). Reps. Mariannette Miller-Meeks, R-Iowa, and John Garamendi, D-California, have introduced legislation aiming to increase the use of renewable biofuels used by sea vessels. By designating renewable fuel used in ocean-going vessels as an “additional renewable fuel” under the RFS, the Renewable Fuel for Ocean-Going Vessels Act would enable companies to preserve RINs in the program. U.S. Sens. Pete Ricketts, R-Nebraska, and Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio, introduced a similar version of the bill in the Senate, and thus far, the bill has shown signs of bipartisan support.

Railroads are another difficult-to-decarbonize sector with dreams of a cleaner future. The rail market is 4 billion gallons in the U.S., and we project that more than 20% will be BBD before the end of the decade. Multiple Class I railroad companies have been setting lofty goals for biodiesel use in their engines as early as 2030. Union Pacific, BNSF and Canadian National, along with other Class I railroads, are already making strides, successfully testing up to 100% BBD.

While there are near-term headwinds for our industry as discussed above, long-term tailwinds are right around the corner. Demand for BBD fuel is going to continue to grow as existing markets expand, and the benefits of these fuels continue to reach new markets.

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ISO Publishes Updated Fuel Specification for Marine Applications Including B100 Approval https://cleanfuels.org/iso-publishes-updated-fuel-specification-for-marine-applications-including-b100-approval/ Tue, 04 Jun 2024 13:57:24 +0000 https://cleanfuels.org/clean-fuels-alliance-america-announces-membership-growth-and-governing-board-changes-copy/ New spec paves the way for biodiesel use in marine transportation

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JEFFERSON CITY, MO – The International Standards Organization (ISO) recently announced the publication of ISO 8217:2024, an updated version of the specification for fuel use in marine applications. The new spec sets forth detailed requirements for marine fuels, including biodiesel blends up to B100, ensuring their suitability and safety for use in nearly every distillate and residual fuel grade. This marks a significant step forward in promoting sustainable fuel options within the maritime industry.

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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Clean Fuels Alliance America Announces Membership Growth and Governing Board Changes https://cleanfuels.org/clean-fuels-alliance-america-announces-membership-growth-and-governing-board-changes/ Wed, 08 May 2024 20:14:15 +0000 https://cleanfuels.org/heating-oil-industry-on-track-to-achieve-net-zero-emissions-by-2050-copy/ New members reflect growing momentum in clean fuels industry

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JEFFERSON CITY, MO – Clean Fuels Alliance America announced an uptick in membership reflecting growing interest in low-carbon liquid fuels in addition to recent changes within its Governing Board.

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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Heating Oil Industry on Track to Achieve Net-Zero Emissions by 2050 https://cleanfuels.org/heating-oil-industry-on-track-to-achieve-net-zero-emissions-by-2050/ Tue, 30 Apr 2024 14:09:02 +0000 https://cleanfuels.org/nine-trade-associations-ask-epa-to-meet-november-deadline-for-2026-rfs-volumes-copy/ Analysis shows biofuels and energy efficiency are equitably and cost-effectively reducing GHGs

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JEFFERSON CITY, MO – The Northeast heating oil industry is on track to achieve the ambitious goals set forth in the Providence Resolution, a landmark commitment made in 2019 to voluntarily reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The resolution, which was unanimously approved by over 300 industry leaders, calls for a 15% reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2023, a 40% reduction by 2030, and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

According to a new analysis by Dr. Tom Butcher of the National Oilheat Research Alliance (NORA), the industry has surpassed its goal of reducing GHGs 15% by 2023, achieving a nearly 26% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions through a combination of energy efficiency improvements and increased use of renewable fuels such as Bioheat® Fuel, a blend of sustainable biodiesel with conventional home heating oil.

“The heating oil industry has made significant strides in reducing its carbon footprint over the past five years,” said Sean Cota, President & CEO of the industry’s Washington-based trade association, the National Energy & Fuels Institute (NEFI).

“These mostly small, multi-generational family businesses are playing an outsized role in carbon reduction in the Northeast,” Cota added. “They will continue to prove pivotal in the years to come as governments at all levels seek to achieve ambitious greenhouse gas reduction goals in a manner that is equitable and achievable, and that preserves energy security and reliability.”

At its sixth annual industry summit, held in Weehawken, New Jersey this week, the industry celebrated numerous successes and innovations, including:

  • UL standards that recognize higher biofuel blends in oil-fired heating equipment
  • Manufacturers introducing burners and heating systems to the market that are certified for blends of up to 100% biodiesel (B100)
  • New federal tax credits for homeowners who upgrade to more efficient oil-fired furnaces and boilers that are designed for use with higher blends of renewable fuels
  • Securing federal grants for downstream biofuel infrastructure investments for heating oil

Working closely with state governments, heating oil state associations advocated for biofuel blending requirements in Connecticut, New York and Rhode Island that will eventually require blends as high as 50-percent. Additionally, heating oil blended with biofuels are expected to generate credits under emerging “clean heat standards” now being developed in Massachusetts and Vermont, and in the early stages of development in several other Northeast states.

Renewable fuels have proven to be an immediate, cost-effective, and equitable means of reducing emissions in the building sector, particularly for the nearly five million Northeast homes and businesses that rely on heating oil dealers for warmth and comfort each winter.

“There is still work ahead, and we are ready for the challenge,” said NEFI Board Chair Ray Hart, a full-service heating oil dealer based out of Long Island, New York.

“This is an industry of hard-working American men and women that care deeply for their neighbors, their local communities, and the environment,” he said. “Together, we can achieve great heights.”

ABOUT THE NATIONAL ENERGY & FUELS INSTITUTE (NEFI)
Since 1942, NEFI has been a leading voice for wholesale and retail liquid heating fuel distributors and related services companies in Washington, DC and throughout the country. Its members are mostly small, multigenerational family businesses that deliver warmth and comfort to millions of American homes. NEFI hosts annual summits, such as today’s event in Weehawken, NJ, that provide an opportunity for stakeholders to gather and discuss pathways to voluntarily achieve carbon reduction goals consistent with industry commitments, including widespread deployment of renewable liquid heating fuels and high efficiency technologies. More at www.nefi.com.

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

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Inspired Action: PepsiCo’s Efforts to Decarbonize North America’s Largest Private Fleet https://cleanfuels.org/pepsicos-efforts-to-decarbonize-north-americas-largest-private-fleet/ Mon, 25 Mar 2024 17:43:07 +0000 https://cleanfuels.org/biodiesel-high-standards-for-a-premium-product-copy/ One of the largest fleets in North America is making big moves to meet its decarbonization goals by embracing clean fuels.

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By Scott Fenwick, Technical Director at Clean Fuels Alliance America
Published in SIGMA IGM Magazine | March/April 2024 Issue

One of the largest fleets in North America is making big moves to meet its decarbonization goals. In 2021, multinational food and beverage company PepsiCo announced its new sustainability initiative— PepsiCo Positive. I was able to discuss their plans and implemented practices with representatives from PepsiCo and Optimus Technologies at a main stage session at the recent Clean Fuels Conference.

“It’s really about our future, and this transformation is deliberate and strategic, and it puts sustainability right at the heart of how we do what we do,” David Allen, PepsiCo’s Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer said. “It’s how we’re going to grow, how we’re going to create value, and how we’re going to ensure long term success and bring positive environmental benefits for the planet and all of its people.”

The company has set a lofty target— net zero emission by 2040. To meet these climate goals and the needs of its complex fleet, PepsiCo has employed renewable sources like alternative fuels to decarbonize and improve operational efficiency. 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 decrease of around 2.5 million metric tons of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by the year 2040— equivalent to the reduction to removing over half a million cars from the roads for an entire year. 

Part of PepsiCo’s plan includes energy diversification across its 80,000-asset fleet, and the solution isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer.

“We have a very diverse fleet,” Adam Buttgenbach, Director of Fleet Engineering and Sustainability with PepsiCo said. “The way that we manage and move those through our supply chain consists of everything from Class 1 through Class 8 vehicles, on highway and off-highway, yard management, material handling equipment. With that very diverse operating cycle that we have, we try to find the best solution that fits the needs of the business as well as the low carbon energy for that. For the past two decades we’ve focused on improving the efficiency of our fleet with aerodynamics, low rolling resistance, and also incorporating a lot of alternative fuels.”

While natural gas and electric vehicles are part of the solution, so are low-carbon, clean renewable fuels. PepsiCo is using renewable diesel for some of its operations in California and biodiesel in other parts of the country. The company has also partnered with Optimus Technologies for a B100 pilot project.

This project started at PepsiCo’s Frito-Lay manufacturing plant in Topeka, Kansas with 10 vehicles. They wanted to test B100’s performance in over-the-road operations that traveled in rural parts of the United States, a sector that is traditionally very hard to decarbonize. The success of that pilot project gave PepsiCo the confidence to continue building out the program. There are now several dozen trucks operating on B100 year-round out of Topeka. They are expanding this program in February to include their Wisconsin plant, with plans to scale up throughout the year with a couple hundred more trucks operating on B100.

Because most engines are not immediately equipped to use B100, PepsiCo has utilized the Optimus Technologies Vector System to convert diesel engines to run on 100% biodiesel.

“The technology provides a low-cost pathway to decarbonization that allows fleets to maintain their business resiliency and operations, because we’re never inhibiting the engine from running traditional diesel or renewable diesel,” said Optimus Technologies CEO Colin Huwyler.

Many different fleets are utilizing this technology to quickly and cost-effectively lower their emissions. Municipalities and commercial groups like PepsiCo are catching on to the here-and-now benefits of upgrading their current fleets to run on B100. 

“We need progress not perfection,” said Allen. “We need action and progress now. If we wait for a perfect solution, we won’t go anywhere, whether we’re talking biofuels, whether we’re talking agriculture, whether we’re talking any of the elements of sustainability and improvement. It’s about incrementality, then where do we go from there.”

PepsiCo hopes to not just show off their methods for meeting sustainability goals—they want to encourage and empower others to do the same.

“As we look to be a leader in the space, it’s not just ‘how do we educate and try to advance and show fleets what we are doing,’ but how do we help enable them to follow similar goals for decarbonization,” Buttgenbach said.

PepsiCo has proven that biodiesel and B100 play important roles in achieving sustainability goals and was recognized with the Clean Fuels Alliance America Inspiration Award at the Clean Fuels Conference 2024. The company is tackling environmental challenges head-on and blazing a trail for fleets to lower carbon emissions now and in the future.

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National Biodiesel Day: Industry Celebrates Feedstock Innovation https://cleanfuels.org/national-biodiesel-day-industry-celebrates-feedstock-innovation/ Mon, 18 Mar 2024 08:00:30 +0000 https://cleanfuels.org/clean-fuels-welcomes-new-mexico-clean-transportation-fuel-standard-copy/ On National Biodiesel Day the clean fuels industry celebrates a milestone in renewable fuel history while honoring the legacy of Rudolf Diesel, the visionary behind the diesel engine.

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Annual celebration takes place on Rudolf Diesel’s birthday

JEFFERSON CITY, MO – On National Biodiesel Day, March 18, the clean fuels industry celebrates a milestone in renewable fuel history while honoring the legacy of Rudolf Diesel, the visionary behind the diesel engine. Diesel originally designed his engine to operate on peanut oil, recognizing the potential of vegetable oils as a renewable fuel source. His pioneering spirit continues to inspire advancements in the modern-day clean fuels industry.

Soybean oil contributed to roughly half of the feedstock for the 4 billion gallons of biodiesel and renewable diesel produced in the U.S. in 2023. The clean fuels industry uses one billion pounds of soybean oil every month, helping Clean Fuels achieve its vision of producing 6 billion gallons of biodiesel, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel by 2030.

Emerging markets are increasing demand for clean fuels driving innovation in feedstock development. Winter cover crops and other annual oilseeds, such as pennycress and Brassica carinata, are being explored as alternative feedstocks to help meet rising demand. These developments signify a momentous step forward in sustainable agricultural practices as farmers introduce new crops into their rotations to contribute to renewable fuels.

“Demand is better than ever, as organizations continue to seek the lowest cost option to decarbonize using domestically produced feedstocks,” said Clean Fuels COO Doug Whitehead. “The benefits include cleaner air, economic growth for our rural communities, immediate cost savings and overall better engine performance.”

The celebration of National Biodiesel Day underscores the importance of feedstock innovation and sustainable practices within the clean fuels industry. As new markets such as rail, marine and home heating oil continue toward decarbonization, low carbon fuels including biodiesel, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel will play a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions now, rather than waiting for future technology.

Join us in commemorating National Biodiesel Day as we honor Rudolf Diesel’s legacy and celebrate the ongoing advancements in feedstock innovation and renewable fuels.

Materials supported by the United Soybean Board, soybean farmers and their checkoffs.

Contact: Heather Buechter, hbuechter@cleanfuels.org.

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Clean Fuels Welcomes New Mexico Clean Transportation Fuel Standard https://cleanfuels.org/clean-fuels-welcomes-new-mexico-clean-transportation-fuel-standard/ Wed, 06 Mar 2024 19:26:12 +0000 https://cleanfuels.org/new-assessment-shows-value-of-soybean-oil-as-low-carbon-feedstock-for-clean-fuels-copy/ New Mexico becomes the fourth state to pass a clean fuel standard

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New Mexico becomes the fourth state to pass a clean fuel standard

JEFFERSON CITY, MO – Clean Fuels Alliance America applauds New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham for signing legislation to create a clean transportation fuel standard for the state of New Mexico. This new law will help drive demand and open a new market for biodiesel and renewable diesel while spurring economic opportunity and creating cleaner air for New Mexicans.

The Clean Transportation Fuel Standard, House Bill 41, tasks the Environmental Improvement Board (EIB) to develop regulations to reduce transportation emissions by 20% from 2018 levels by 2030 and 30% by 2040. This technology and fuel-neutral program will generate new opportunities for the renewable fuel industry to help meet these carbon emissions reduction targets.

The achievement is the result of a multi-year effort spearheaded by Rep. Kristina Ortez (D-42) and Sen. Mimi Stewart (D-17). Clean Fuels Alliance America worked side-by-side with its member organizations and the Low Carbon Fuels Coalition to develop science and technical analysis to help educate lawmakers on the positive role renewable fuels provide in low carbon policies.

“New Mexico’s passage of the Clean Transportation Fuel Standard marks a pivotal moment in the state’s commitment to a sustainable future,” said Cory-Ann Wind, Clean Fuels Director of State Regulatory Affairs. “Cleaner fuels like biodiesel and renewable diesel will play a significant role in helping New Mexico reach its climate and air pollution goals.”

Jeff Earl, Clean Fuels Director of State Governmental Affairs, highlights that endorsing clean fuels not only supports environmental goals but also contributes to reducing fuel costs.

“A study by the World Agricultural Economic and Environmental Services revealed that the availability of biodiesel increases the fuel supply, resulting in an average annual reduction of 4% in diesel prices at the pump,” Earl said. “We congratulate New Mexico on passing this landmark legislation and express gratitude to Gov. Lujan Grisham for championing its advancement.”

New Mexico becomes the fourth state to pass a clean fuel standard, alongside California, Oregon and Washington.

Contact: Heather Buechter, hbuechter@cleanfuels.org.

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New Assessment Shows Value of Soybean Oil as Low-Carbon Feedstock for Clean Fuels https://cleanfuels.org/new-assessment-shows-value-of-soybean-oil-as-low-carbon-feedstock-for-clean-fuels/ Mon, 04 Mar 2024 16:16:43 +0000 https://cleanfuels.org/winner-announced-for-the-beth-calabotta-sustainable-education-grant-copy/ Study Documents Significant Decrease in Soy's Life Cycle Carbon Footprint from 2015-2021

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Study Documents Significant Decrease in Soy’s Life Cycle Carbon Footprint from 2015-2021

JEFFERSON CITY, MO – A recent Life Cycle Assessment conducted by Sustainable Solutions Corporation (SSC) for the United Soybean Board (USB) and the National Oilseed Processors Association (NOPA) reveals a significant reduction in the carbon footprint of U.S. Soy throughout its cultivation, harvesting, transportation and processing stages. The assessment highlights a notable 22% decrease in the carbon footprint associated with U.S. production of crude soy oil, which is a key feedstock for U.S. biodiesel, renewable diesel and SAF producers.

Soybean production and oil processing constitute more than 40% of the carbon intensity (CI) score for soy biodiesel. The improvements documented in this report are expected to translate into reductions in CI across the clean fuels industry.

Clean Fuels Alliance America assisted USB and NOPA in ensuring the data collected for processors in the report aligns with data specifications for GREET, so it could be easily integrated into GREET model updates.

“We look forward to working with Argonne National Laboratory through the data quality assessment process to update the GREET model to reflect the latest improvements in the industry,” said Veronica Bradley, Environmental Scientist at Clean Fuels Alliance America.

The Life Cycle Assessment of U.S. Soybeans, Soybean Meal, and Soy Oil report can be found here.

Materials supported by the United Soybean Board, soybean farmers and their checkoffs.

About United Soybean Board (USB): United Soybean Board’s 77 volunteer farmer-leaders work on behalf of all U.S. soybean farmers to achieve maximum value for their soy checkoff investments. These volunteers create value by investing in research, education and promotion with the vision to deliver sustainable soy solutions to every life, every day across the three priority areas of Infrastructure & Connectivity, Health & Nutrition, and Innovation & Technology. As stipulated in the federal Soybean Promotion, Research and Consumer Information Act, the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service has oversight responsibilities for USB and the soy checkoff. For more information on USB, visit unitedsoybean.org.

About National Oilseed Processors Association (NOPA): Founded in 1930, NOPA is the national trade organization located in Washington, DC representing the U.S. soybean, canola, flaxseed, safflower seed, and sunflower seed crushing industries. Our 15 members operate a total of 62 soybean & 5 softseed solvent extraction plants across 21 states. NOPA members produce meal and oil used in human food, animal feed, fuel and for industrial applications. Collectively, NOPA members process 95 percent of all soybeans in the U.S. which accounts to over 2 billion bushels annually. For more information on NOPA, visit nopa.org.  

Contact: Heather Buechter, hbuechter@cleanfuels.org.

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Winner Announced for the Beth Calabotta Sustainable Education Grant https://cleanfuels.org/winner-announced-for-the-beth-calabotta-sustainable-education-grant/ Fri, 23 Feb 2024 16:39:52 +0000 https://cleanfuels.org/clean-fuels-conference-emphasizes-a-new-era-of-industry-growth-copy/ The Beth Calabotta Sustainable Education Grant helps deserving students interested in clean fuels, science and research.

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JEFFERSON CITY, MO – The Clean Fuels Alliance Foundation has awarded the Beth Calabotta Sustainable Education Grant to Pranab Adhikari. Adhikari is currently pursuing a computer science degree at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He also works as a data analyst intern at the City of Madison where he is involved in overseeing the implementation of initiatives such as the B100 biodiesel pilot programs actively contributing to the operation of almost 500 diesel assets on blends of B5, B20 and B100. This grant provides Adhikari the opportunity to attend this year’s Clean Fuels Sustainability Workshop where he will share his work with industry and scientific leaders in the field.

“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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