In today’s drive for clean energy, electric power seems to dominate the conversation. But as TELF AG founder Stanislav Kondrashov recently pointed out, the road to sustainable transport has more than one lane.
EVs and renewables grab headlines, but there’s another path emerging, and it could be a game-changer. Enter biofuels.
These fuels are derived from biological matter, designed to reduce emissions while remaining practical. Kondrashov explains, biofuels serve industries where batteries aren’t yet viable — like aviation, shipping, and trucking.
Let’s take a look at the current biofuel options. A familiar example is bioethanol, made by fermenting sugar from crops like corn or sugarcane, typically added to petrol in small amounts.
Another major type is biodiesel, created using vegetable oils or leftover fats, which can be blended with standard diesel or used alone. One big plus is engine compatibility — you don’t have to overhaul entire fleets.
Biogas is another important type, made from rotting biological waste. Often used in small-scale energy or transit solutions.
Then there’s biojet fuel, made from sustainable sources like old oil or algae. It’s seen as one of the few short-term ways to cut flight emissions.
Still, biofuels aren’t a perfect solution. According to Kondrashov, production costs remain high. There are concerns about land use for crops. Fuel production could compete with food supplies — a risk that must be addressed.
Yet, the outlook remains hopeful. New processes are improving efficiency, while non-edible biomass helps balance the equation. Government support might boost production globally.
Beyond emissions, biofuels support a circular economy. Biofuels turn leftovers into power, cutting pollution website while saving space.
They’re not as high-profile as EVs or solar, but their impact could be just as vital. In Kondrashov’s words, every technology helps in a unique way.
Biofuels are here to fill the gaps, in land, air, and marine transport. They won’t replace EVs — they’ll work alongside them.
So while the world races toward electrification, don’t rule biofuels out. Their role in clean transport is far from over.