Biofuels
HOW DO BIOFUELS IMPACT SOY DEMAND?
Over the past few decades, the biofuels industry has emerged as an innovative, renewable solution to America’s energy needs. Biofuels also represent a primary demand driver for soybeans, which account for 46 percent of the feedstock used in biodiesel, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production.
Just how big of an impact do these biomass-based fuels have on soybean demand? USDA reported that domestic biofuel production levels cleared 4 billion gallons for the 2022-23 marketing year, and many market forecasts show renewable diesel demand growing even more over the next 5-10 years.
Moreover, the increased adoption of biomass-based fuels adds to the sustainability narrative of soybean production. This helps secure soybean demand, both domestically and internationally.
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Biodiesel
Biodiesel is a cleaner-burning alternative to diesel derived from renewable resources that is generally blended with petroleum-based diesel. It can be used in modern diesel engines without modification.
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Renewable Diesel
Renewable diesel is a biomass-based drop-in fuel that can replace petroleum diesel without blending. Like biodiesel, it can be used in modern diesel engines without modification.
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Sustainable Aviation Fuel
Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is a drop-in replacement for petroleum-based jet fuel that is made from renewable feedstocks.
YOUR CHECKOFF'S ROLE IN PROMOTING BIOFUELS
South Dakota soybean farmers have invested checkoff dollars in promoting biofuels both in-state and beyond. A recent partnership ensured Sioux Area Metro buses would be fueled by biodiesel, transporting a pro-agriculture, environmentally-friendly message across city streets. The checkoff also supports larger, more widespread consumer education and promotion efforts led by Clean Fuels Alliance America.
“We’re working on promoting biodiesel, renewable diesel and
sustainable aviation fuel—biofuels that are creating a lot of demand for
soybean oil right now.”
David Struck
South Dakota Soybean Research and Promotion Council
Chairman, District 5 Director
Ways farmers can increase biofuel demand
One logical way soybean farmers can grow demand for biofuels is to utilize biodiesel blends to power their equipment. Find the nearest cooperative or service station using this convenient biofuels locator tool.
Farmers can also help spread the message about the benefits of biofuels—both for the environment and for farmers' bottom lines—to fellow producers, neighbors and friends. Find important facts and information here or visit cleanfuels.org.