Biodiesel
Biodiesel is a renewable fuel derived from vegetable oils or animal fats. Unlike petroleum products, biodiesel is biodegradable, non-toxic and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Common plant crops used in the production of biodiesel include soybeans, corn, hemp, canola and sunflowers. In the United States, most biodiesel is made from soybean oil. The resulting liquid is golden to dark-brown in color (much like cooking oil) and has a viscosity similar to that of diesel fuel.
Certain environmental groups worry that as demand for biodiesel increases forests will be clear-cut in order to create more land to grow crops on. However, research continues with the hope of discovering a more sustainable form of biodiesel. Algae may very well provide such a source of energy.
Biodiesel is registered with the EPA and is legal to use in the United States at any blend level. Consumers can buy it at 800 locations across the country. In 2005, some 75 million gallons were sold. See the guide for buying biodiesel, http://www.biodiesel.org/buyingbiodiesel/guide/default.shtm.
Sources:
-- “Biodiesel,” Infoplease.com. Accessed Sept. 5, 2007. http://www.infoplease.com/ce6/sci/A0909640.html
-- “Biodiesel,” EPA Web site. Accessed Sept. 5, 2007. http://www.epa.gov/SmartwayLogistics/growandgo/documents/factsheet-biodiesel.htm
-- “Biodiesel,” Wikipedia. Accessed Sept. 5, 2007. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biodiesel
