Jeferson City: The biodiesel industry in the United States marked National Biodiesel Day on March 18, highlighting its role in clean fuel growth and its contribution to agriculture and energy security, Morning AgClips reported.
The Clean Fuels Alliance America said biodiesel has played a key role in shaping the clean fuels market, particularly in heavy transport, and has expanded into rail, marine, heating fuel and aviation.
Chief Executive Officer Donnell Rehagen said the industry has grown on the strength of domestically produced fuel, supported largely by soybean farmers.
National Biodiesel Day is observed to mark the birth anniversary of Rudolf Diesel, who developed the diesel engine and had highlighted the future potential of plant-based fuels more than a century ago.
Rehagen said the importance of domestic fuel production remains strong, adding that biodiesel supports farm incomes, food supply and national energy needs.
According to the industry body, biodiesel and renewable diesel contribute about 10% of the value of every bushel of soybeans grown in the U.S., helping provide stability to farmers by creating additional markets.
Looking ahead, the industry expects further growth, supported by policy measures. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has proposed a renewable fuel target of 5.61 billion gallons for 2026, along with plans for gradual increases in the coming years.
Additional growth opportunities include state-level low carbon fuel programmes and a proposed clean fuel production tax credit.
The association said producers and farmers are prepared to expand output as new policies take shape, adding that demand for cleaner fuels is expected to continue rising in the years ahead.
