Karnataka has proposed a collaboration with the US state of Maryland to recycle used cooking oil into biodiesel and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), as part of efforts to strengthen cooperation in the clean energy sector, India Today reported.
The proposal was discussed during a meeting between Karnataka State Bioenergy Development Board Chairman S.E. Sudheendra and Maryland Governor Wes Moore in Washington on Monday.
Sudheendra said he invited Moore to visit Karnataka and discussed opportunities for cooperation in bioenergy, compressed biogas (CBG), biodiesel, green hydrogen and sustainable aviation fuel.
Speaking to PTI, Sudheendra said improper disposal of used cooking oil and industrial waste oil poses serious environmental and public health risks when released into drains, soil or water bodies. He also warned that illegally recycled cooking oil re-entering the food chain could lead to serious health problems, including cardiovascular diseases and certain types of cancer.
He said converting used cooking oil into biodiesel would not only prevent environmental pollution and health risks but also create a valuable source of clean energy.
“Converting such used oil into biodiesel not only eliminates these hazards but also transforms a pollutant into a valuable clean energy resource—a model Karnataka has actively championed and one it hopes to extend through collaboration with Maryland,” Sudheendra said.
According to Sudheendra, Governor Moore highlighted the importance of biofuels in addressing global energy security and climate change challenges during the discussions.
Sudheendra said Karnataka has emerged as a leader in promoting bioenergy by converting agricultural residues and biomass into renewable energy, supporting both energy security and rural livelihoods.
During his visit, he also met Maryland Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller. US entrepreneur Ravi Puli was present during the meetings as Karnataka explored opportunities for collaboration on clean energy and biofuel technologies.
