Fossil fuels have fueled the industrial revolutions we have witnessed so far. Their overuse is currently a menace to the environment. The ecological balance hangs on the point of depleting resources and endangered wildlife.
Several measures have been taken to replace fossil fuels with cleaner energy. However, it is a massive step to reach net zero emissions and protect our only planet. One such promising alternative to fossil fuels is biodiesel. The benefits of biodiesel surpass the worries of depleting fossil fuels and support our environmental concerns.
Let us discuss ten such benefits of biodiesel and understand how important this alternative is for a cleaner future.
Benefits of Biodiesel –
1. Renewable Energy Source :
Biodiesel is a renewable energy source that reduces our reliance on finite fossil fuels. The renewability of a biofuel is measured by the ratio of energy units in the fuel to non-renewable energy units used to produce it. Its feedstocks are used cooking oil, animal tallow, non-edible vegetable oils, restaurant grease, etc.
Biodiesel boasts an impressive ratio of 5.5:1, indicating that it generates significantly more energy than the non-renewable energy consumed in its production. This makes biodiesel a sustainable option for the future as we seek to diminish our dependence on dwindling fossil fuel reserves.
2. Higher Cetane Number:
The cetane number measures a fuel’s readiness to auto-ignite after injection into a diesel engine. Diesel fuel used in on-highway engines must have a cetane number of 40 or higher.
Biodiesel typically has a cetane number between 46 and 60, depending on the feedstock. Fuels with a higher cetane number ignite quicker and burn better. It leads to smoother engine operation and reduced emissions. Biodiesel’s higher cetane number can also result in lower engine noise and less wear and tear on the engine, enhancing overall vehicle performance.
3. Cleaner Burning Fuel :
Biodiesel significantly reduces emissions compared to conventional diesel, except for nitrogen oxides (NOx). The EPA’s “Biodiesel Emission Analysis Program” in 2002 showed that biodiesel produces lower levels of particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and hydrocarbons.
4. Nontoxic and Biodegradable :
You will be surprised to know that biodiesel is less toxic than table salt and biodegrades as quickly as sugar. Studies have shown that biodiesel is safe for terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, causing minimal harm in the event of spills.
This nontoxic nature makes biodiesel an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional diesel fuel, which can be harmful to wildlife and ecosystems. The use of biodiesel can help prevent soil and water contamination, promoting a healthier environment.
5. Reduces Greenhouse Gas Emissions :
Using biodiesel can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Biodiesel reduces carbon emissions by more than 80% compared to conventional diesel. As an advanced biofuel, it meets the criteria of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by at least 50%.
A study in Australia found that biodiesel made from cooking oil could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 87%. This substantial reduction in emissions helps combat climate change and promotes a healthier planet.
6. Positive Economic Impact :
Biodiesel production boosts the local economy by creating jobs and generating income. In 2016, the U.S. produced over 1.6 billion gallons of biodiesel, with production numbers continuing to rise. This industry growth adds billions to the gross domestic product (GDP) and supports thousands of jobs in agriculture, production, and distribution.
In fact, India is dependent on other countries by procuring 80% of its annual energy needs. We use more than 3.7 million barrels of petroleum every day. On the other hand, India is the biggest consumer of vegetable oil in the world. Hence, procuring used cooking oil as feedstock for biodiesel production is not a problem. Also, inedible vegetable oils extracted from neem, jatropha, and karanj are used for biodiesel production.
7. Improved Engine Lubricity :
Even a small percentage of biodiesel in diesel fuel enhances its lubricity. One of the benefits of biodiesel is that reduces engine wear and tear. Low lubricity in fuel can lead to increased friction and wear on engine components, shortening engine lifespan.
Biodiesel acts as a natural lubricant, improving the performance and longevity of diesel engines. This benefit is particularly important as the EPA continues to mandate lower sulfur levels in diesel fuel, which can reduce lubricity.
8. Energy Security :
By reducing our dependence on foreign oil, biodiesel enhances energy security. Furthermore, diversifying our energy sources with domestically produced biodiesel helps protect against supply disruptions and, in addition, price volatility in the global oil market.
The target of blending 20% biodiesel with commercial diesel by the end of 2025 will surely impact our economy. Reports suggest that proper recovery of feedstocks can reduce fuel imports by 40%.
This increased energy security is one of the biggest benefits of biodiesel and can lead to more stable fuel prices and greater economic stability. Furthermore, investing in renewable energy sources like biodiesel supports national energy independence and promotes sustainable energy policies.
Biodiesel is the Ticket to a Cleaner and Safer Future
The benefits of biodiesel will play a crucial role in shaping our future. The rising demand for fuel in this ever-growing economy needs better alternatives and biodiesel is a start. These benefits suggest that it is renewable and cleaner than conventional fossil fuels. It enhances engine performance and supports the economy.
Biodiesel reduces greenhouse gas emissions and our reliance on foreign oil. By improving fuel lubricity and boosting the local economy, biodiesel proves to be a sustainable choice. With all these advantages, biodiesel stands out as a key player in our move towards a cleaner and more secure energy future.
To know more about biodiesel production, reach us at MagTech. We offer end-to-end solutions, ranging from planning a biodiesel production unit to, ultimately, installation. Let us, therefore, be your biodiesel partner and, in doing so, pledge to take a step forward for a better, greener world.
