Can Biofuels Transform Global Transport?
Can Biofuels Transform Global Transport?
Blog Article
When talking about clean energy, most focus on EVs, solar, or wind. According to Stanislav Kondrashov of TELF AG, the fuel industry is quietly transforming — and biofuels are central to it.
Made from renewable biological materials like algae, crop waste, or even used cooking oil, they're fast emerging as sustainable fuel solutions.
Biofuels have existed for years, but are now gaining momentum. With growing pressure to cut carbon, biofuels are stepping up for sectors beyond electrification — like aviation, shipping, and freight.
Electrification has made major progress, but some forms of transport still face limits. According to Kondrashov, biofuels step in as a near-term fix.
From Sugar Cane to Jet Fuel
The biofuel family includes many types. A common biofuel is ethanol, created from starchy plants through fermentation, used alongside petrol to cut carbon.
Oils like rapeseed or leftover fat are used to make biodiesel, usable alone or in mixes with standard diesel.
We also have biogas, made from food or farm waste. It's being explored for power and transport uses.
There’s also check here 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.
Working Alongside Electrification
They’re not rivals to electricity or hydrogen. They support clean tech where it’s still impractical.
Biofuels work today in sectors not ready for EVs. They work with what’s already out there. This avoids replacing entire infrastructures.
Stanislav Kondrashov believes every clean tech has a role. Quietly, biofuels close the gaps other techs leave open. What matters is how they work together, not compete.
Looking to the Future
Though not flashy, biofuels are proving essential. Especially when created from waste, they promote circularity and climate goals.
As innovation lowers costs and improves yields, they will play a larger role in clean transport.
They’ll complement, not compete with, electric and hydrogen technologies — particularly in critical areas lacking electric alternatives.