Notably, the shift to renewable diesel and biodiesel has eliminated the unpleasant odors associated with traditional diesel, a difference even skeptics can’t ignore. Shop workers reported noticeably cleaner air with less smoke and smell.
Through a pilot project, the Staten Island Ferry is running on 100% soy-based diesel. The city's diesel engine vehicle fleet is entirely committed to using renewable fuels and they're currently working on transitioning the maritime fleet.
According to recent reports, these efforts have contributed to the replacement of 1.4 million gallons of fossil diesel in the past year in the U.S. alone.
Ambitious Goals for Clean Fuels
Clean Fuels leaders Donnell Rehagen and Tom Verry outlined ambitious industry goals, including producing 6 billion gallons of biofuel annually by 2030 and reducing over 50 million tons of CO2. Colleen Klein, Executive Director of the New York Corn and Soybean Growers Association, emphasized the importance of building relationships with city leaders to make these advances possible.
Innovation in Heating Solutions
The tour also included a visit to the National Oilheat Research Alliance (NORA) research and training facility, where Michael Devine, NORA President, discussed the organization’s “bean-to-burner” narrative, showcasing the sustainability connection between soybean growers and the heating systems that rely on their crops. The facility demonstrates how biodiesel blends are being tested for long-term performance and emissions, ensuring they meet the industry’s rigorous standards. Challenges like supply limitations were addressed, but the optimism for expanding remains strong.
South Dakota Farmers Leading the Way
South Dakota farmers Mike McCranie, Tim Ostrem, Chad Schooley, and Drew Peterson, attended the tour to see their contributions in action. Reflecting on the experience, Chad Schooley shared, "This tour connects everything for us as farmers. It’s rewarding to see how our work with soybean market development directly impacts urban sustainability, from cleaner air in city garages to renewable heating solutions. Knowing that our efforts help fuel progress on this scale is fulfilling."
Mike McCranie, who was involved in the beginning of soy-based biodiesel innovation, commented how impressive it was to see how far the industry has come. "When we started finding new soybean oil uses, like soy diesel, we had no idea how far it would evolve," Mike said. "Through this tour, I've thoroughly enjoyed seeing the advancements in the industry and our dedication to advocating our sustainable products pay off."
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