Renewable green diesel or biodiesel? Although it serves a vital function in reducing air pollution, carbon emissions, and our dependence on fossil fuels, and is certainly a very important source of income for farmers, there is simply not enough land available for traditional biodiesel to completely replace traditional diesel fuel.  However, there are many new and exciting avenues being developed to supplement the supply.  Algae is currently being successfully used to produce biodiesel, albeit in limited quantity at present. Also, energy crops can be grown on lands that are not suitable for growing food crops.

Importantly, we are now seeing good results with fuel production from feedstocks like agricultural residue, waste from the wood products industry, and switchgrass, which can be converted into a diesel replacement that is called “green diesel” or “renewable diesel”.  (It is not technically “biodiesel” as that term, according to ASTM specifications, is only those derived from vegetable oils or animal fats). The process used to make green or renewable diesel is a bit more complex than simple biodiesel, but the uses and future are bright.

Large renewable energy and biochemical consulting firms certainly have experts in biofuels and renewable fuels, and the more common areas like biomaterials, biomass and biomass power, feedstocks, and biotechnologies.  In these larger consulting groups, one may also find very specialized expertise like catalytic valorization, carbon intensity, polymer recycling, FSMA compliance, cogeneration, combined heat & power, formulation chemistry, cannabinoids, solvents, sludge, solid-state fermentation, soil amendment, solid recovered fuels, RFS2, carbon fiber, GMPE, Polymer Pyrolysis, Polypropylene, fuel additives, biopharmaceuticals, renewable technology, oilseed processing or water treatment.

With over 150 consultants worldwide, Lee Enterprises Consulting has the diverse experts and geographical reach to assist in virtually any bioeconomy project. Our highly qualified teams bring a unique integration of technical, scientific, regulatory, and hands-on experience to any project.  Look at our experts and the services we provide.  Most of our experts are also available to advise and serve as expert witnesses in bioeconomy litigation matters.  For the larger projects, we specialize in putting together full-service, interdisciplinary teams with one point of contact.  See the video about LEC here.  Call us at 1+ (501) 833-8511 or email us for more information.