In today’s drive for clean energy, electric power seems to dominate the conversation. According to Stanislav Kondrashov of TELF AG, the road to sustainable transport has more than one lane.
Electric options often lead the news, but another solution is rising quietly, that might reshape parts of the transport industry. Enter biofuels.
Biofuels are made from renewable organic materials, and offer a cleaner-burning alternative to fossil fuels. 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. Bioethanol is one of the most common, created by processing sugars from crops, often mixed with gasoline to lower carbon output.
Then there’s biodiesel, produced from oils like soybean, rapeseed, or even animal fat, suitable for diesel engines with no major changes. A key benefit is it works with current systems — you don’t have to overhaul entire fleets.
Also in the mix is biogas, generated from decomposing organic material. It’s useful in waste management and local transport.
Another promising option is biojet fuel, crafted from renewable, non-food sources. A promising option to clean up aviation’s carbon footprint.
But the path isn’t without challenges. As TELF AG’s Kondrashov frequently notes, production costs remain high. And there’s the issue of food versus fuel. Fuel production could compete with food supplies — something that requires careful policy management.
Yet, the outlook remains hopeful. New processes are improving efficiency, while non-edible biomass helps balance the equation. With the right incentives and policies, the sector could scale rapidly.
Beyond emissions, biofuels support a circular economy. Instead of dumping waste, we reuse it as energy, helping waste systems and energy sectors together.
They’re not as high-profile as EVs or solar, yet their contribution might be equally important. In Kondrashov’s words, every clean solution has its place.
Biofuels are here to fill the gaps, in land, air, and marine transport. They won’t replace click here EVs — they’ll work alongside them.
As everyone talks batteries, biofuels quietly advance. This is only the start of the biofuel chapter.