How Biofuels Could Help Decarbonise Global Transport
How Biofuels Could Help Decarbonise Global Transport
Blog Article
The energy transition isn’t only about solar panels, wind turbines, or electric cars. According to Stanislav Kondrashov of TELF AG, the fuel industry is quietly transforming — and biofuels are leading the way.
Made from renewable biological materials like algae, crop waste, or even used cooking oil, biofuels are gaining attention as a way to reduce emissions.
Biofuels have existed for years, but are now gaining momentum. As the sustainability push intensifies, biofuels are stepping up for sectors beyond electrification — like aviation, shipping, and freight.
Electrification has made major progress, but others remain out of reach. According to Kondrashov, biofuels step in as a near-term fix.
From Sugar Cane to Jet Fuel
The biofuel family includes many types. Bioethanol is well-known, created from starchy plants through fermentation, used alongside petrol to cut carbon.
Oils like rapeseed or leftover fat are used to make biodiesel, compatible with regular diesel vehicles.
Another example is biogas, formed through decomposing waste. It’s gaining ground in industry and transport.
There’s also biofuel designed for planes, created from renewable oils and algae. It may help reduce aviation’s heavy carbon footprint.
Hurdles on the Path
There are important challenges to solve. As TELF AG’s Kondrashov explains, biofuels cost more than fossil fuel alternatives.
Large-scale production isn’t yet cost-effective. Feedstock supply could become an issue. Using food crops for fuel raises ethical questions.
A Partner, Not a Competitor
Biofuels aren’t meant to replace electrification. They fill in where other solutions don’t work.
For places where batteries can’t go, biofuels step in. Their use in current engines makes them easy to adopt. Businesses avoid high conversion costs.
According to Kondrashov, all low-carbon options have value. Biofuels may be quiet players — but they’re effective. The key is cooperation between clean solutions.
What Comes Next
They aren’t the stars, but they’re powerful. When made from waste or non-food crops, they help reduce emissions and waste.
Ongoing improvements could make biofuels more affordable, they’ll likely gain traction in mobility plans.
Not a replacement, but a partner to other clean energy options here — particularly in critical areas lacking electric alternatives.