Many companies around the world have begun exploring renewable fuels to lower their environmental footprint and show a commitment to better protecting our world.
Geoff Hirson- CEO of Indaba Renewable Fuels LLC and a leader in the renewable fuel space- speaks to the multiple ways that innovations in the fuel sector can improve the quality of our processes. Not only will this have a notable impact on the wellbeing of the planet, but it has positive implications for workers and members of our communities community as well.
Here, Geoff Hirson explores a few of the most cited benefits of renewable diesel as well as why it is crucial that energy companies recognize renewable fuels as the future of sustainability.
Lower Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Many of us know that, when fossil fuels are burned, they release greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Greenhouse gas emissions are a subject of debate in the growing conversation about climate change because they are a huge contributor to rising temperatures around the world.
Some experts have presented that using renewable diesel over petroleum diesel can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80%. This is because renewable diesel is produced from lower carbon materials- meaning that it burns cleaner than traditional diesel.
Renewable diesel innovators recognize the importance of the transportation of goods and its role in infrastructure but acknowledge that emissions can be damaging to our environment. Innovations mean that we can continue to uphold our transportation processes while showing a commitment to the environment.
Easily Produced and Distributed
Arguments against fossil fuels commonly speak to how they are not a renewable resource. It takes a very long time for fossil fuels to be created naturally- and we do not have a clear idea of when the well will run dry.
One of the inherent benefits of renewable diesel- according to Geoff Hirson- is that it is a great tool for lowering our dependency on fossil fuels. We depend on foreign suppliers for our many of our resources associated with fossil fuels and having more choices can reduce our capacity for conflict.
Sources for renewable diesel such as fats, oils, and grease-based feedstocks are much more accessible than the fossil fuels as they can be quickly found, processed, and repurposed. This gives companies the opportunity to grow, produce, and distribute renewable diesel locally rather than rely on importing for such an important factor in our infrastructure.
Creates New Jobs
Detractors of renewable fuels maintain that a shift to more environmentally friendly practices will spell the end for many jobs in the fossil fuel sector. Geoff Hirson maintains that this is simply not the case for several reasons.
For example, many leading companies in the fossil fuel sector are already beginning initiatives to commit to more sustainable practices. While changes occur, and even after, there will still be a need for professionals to carry out essential energy related tasks. After all, changes will not occur all at once. We can expect that- in our lifetimes- we will not have fully eliminated our world’s dependency on fossil fuels.
Geoff asserts that diesel and other renewable fuels are both a job creator and economy driver. Experts have found that each 10 million gallons of renewable diesel produced creates about 3,200 jobs. Naturally, spaces will accommodate more employment opportunities as they grow and develop.
Renewable diesel production requires sources that are easily accessible, giving individuals in many different sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and transportation the opportunity to get in on innovations.
More Durable as a Resource
Many obstacles within the fuel industry are linked to the durability of traditional fuels. For example, diesel fuel can be subject to microbial growth, and storage can be made complicated in cold environments because diesel can deteriorate in quality or even accumulate water.
A benefit of renewable diesel is that it is hydrogenated and does not contain oxygen. This ensures that some of the largest issues surrounding both transport and storage are eliminated.
Maintenance can be a huge obstacle when it comes to diesel. Renewable diesel can save time on maintenance during essential processes because it is much more durable than its traditional counterpart.
Safer Form of Fuel
A primary concern with handling diesel is that it can be damaging if spilled or released into the environment. Petroleum diesel can also be dangerous because of its relatively low flashpoint of around 126°F.
Renewable diesel is considered safer from traditional diesel for several reasons. It is nontoxic and biodegradable, meaning that it does not pose any risk to our water supply. Experts have found that renewable diesel production reduces hazardous waste by 96% and wastewater by as much as 79%. Studies on the biodegradability of renewable diesel have found that it degrades 4 times faster than regular diesel fuel in soil and water.
Renewable diesel is also considerably less combustible than petroleum diesel, with a flashpoint of 266°F. These differences make renewable diesel safer to store, handle, and transport along the various stages of its production. Its qualities also make it much easier and less costly to repair damage and clean up during accidental spills.
Looking to the Future
Geoff Hirson acknowledges that renewable diesel is an incredible resource for a variety of reasons. As experts and researchers discover even more reasons why biofuels are essential for sustainability, it is crucial to examine the role that they can play in innovation and a commitment to environmentally friendly practices.
At Indaba Renewable Fuels, Geoff and his colleagues display a strong interest in leading the way for more sustainable practices. Converting waste such as animal oil, fats, and feedstock into renewable fuel is both a great way to reduce waste production as well as lower our capacity to damage the plant.
While we may not yet be where we need to be just yet to eliminate our dependency on fossil fuels, we are on the fast track to a more innovative future that is more clean, efficient, and sustainable.
