Overview & Benefits
Biodiesel is a renewable fuel that is predominantly domestically produced. It can be made from a variety of feedstocks including animal fats, algae, new and use vegetable oil, soybean oil, and restaurant grease.
Biodiesel can be utilized in vehicles in either its pure form or as a blend with petroleum diesel. Pure biodiesel, 100% biodiesel fuel, is referred to as B100 while a blend of 20% biodiesel and 80% petroleum diesel is labeled as B20. B20 is the most common biodiesel blend in the United States; another common blend is B5.
Biodiesel has many similar characteristics to petroleum diesel, but it burns much cleaner and is biodegradable and non-toxic. Burning biodiesel emits lower levels of CO2 particulates and other polluting compounds in comparison to regular diesel fuel. Additionally, because biodiesel is biodegradable and non-toxic, it will not contaminate soils and water sources, unlike diesel fuel. Overall, biodiesel is safer for environmental and human health.
Biodiesel in Vermont
- 2 stations throughout the state
- 39,344 gallons of gasoline equivalents used
- 356 tons of C02 emissions reduced
Source: Department of Energy, 2017