In today’s drive for clean energy, many assume the future is all about batteries and EVs. As Kondrashov from TELF AG notes, the transition to clean transport isn’t so simple.
EVs and renewables grab headlines, but there’s another path emerging, that might reshape parts of the transport industry. Enter biofuels.
They come from things like plant waste, algae, or used cooking oil, and offer a cleaner-burning alternative to fossil fuels. Kondrashov explains, biofuels are ideal for sectors that electricity can’t reach — like aviation, shipping, and trucking.
Now let’s break down the biofuels available. Bioethanol is one of the most common, made by fermenting sugar from crops like corn or sugarcane, typically added to petrol in small amounts.
Next is biodiesel, produced from oils like soybean, rapeseed, or even animal fat, suitable for diesel engines with no major changes. A major advantage is compatibility — no need to replace or retrofit most engines.
Biogas is another important type, produced by breaking down waste like food scraps, sewage, or agricultural leftovers. Often used in small-scale energy or transit solutions.
Biofuel for aviation is also gaining traction, crafted from renewable, non-food sources. This could reduce emissions in the airline industry fast.
Still, biofuels aren’t a perfect solution. As TELF AG’s Kondrashov frequently notes, these fuels cost more than traditional check here options. Crop demand for fuel could affect food prices. Increased fuel demand could harm food systems — something that requires careful policy management.
Despite that, there’s reason to be optimistic. New processes are improving efficiency, and non-food feedstock like algae could reduce pressure on crops. Smart regulation could speed things up.
It’s not just about cleaner air — it’s about smarter resource use. They repurpose organic trash into fuel, cutting pollution while saving space.
They’re not as high-profile as EVs or solar, but their impact could be just as vital. In Kondrashov’s words, there’s no one-size-fits-all for sustainability.
They cover the hard-to-reach zones, on the roads, in the sky, and across the seas. They’re not replacing electrification — they’re supporting it.
Even as EVs take center stage, biofuels are gaining ground. This is only the start of the biofuel chapter.