Soybeans in the Big Apple: Transforming NYC with Clean Fuels

Farmers Witness Soy’s Big Impact in NYC

Farmers from across the country joined Clean Fuels Alliance America on a journey to New York City to witness firsthand how soybeans are transforming one of the world's most iconic urban landscapes. This tour showcased the incredible strides made in renewable fuels and soy-based products, emphasizing their role in creating a more sustainable future.

Cleaner Air, Smarter Fleets

The event began with a presentation at the NYC Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS), where Keith Kerman, Deputy Commissioner and Chief Fleet Officer, showcased the city’s groundbreaking transition from diesel to biodiesel blends and renewable diesel. Since 2018, DCAS has also integrated over 2,522 soy-based tires into fleets for the NYPD, Department of Correction, DSNY, DOT, Parks, and FDNY. These tires demonstrate another innovative use of soybeans in urban infrastructure.

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."

Drew Peterson, who worked in the city for a stint years ago and now farms near Salem, shared his insight from the tour, "They aren't buying soy-based diesel and heating oil to do farmers a favor. They are buying these products because they burn cleaner and help them achieve their sustainability objectives."

Firefighting Foam Breakthrough

Another highlight was the FDNY’s adoption of soy-based firefighting foam. With over 100 fire departments on Long Island alone, having a safe and effective product free of harmful PFAS chemicals is a game-changer. Retired firefighter Bill Fitch expressed excitement about this development, emphasizing its importance for both safety and environmental impact.

Learn more about SoyFoam here.

Building a Greener Future

Clean Fuels Alliance America’s tour of New York City highlighted how collaboration between farmers, researchers, and city officials is driving demand for soy-based products and renewable fuels. As the industry continues to grow, these partnerships will remain critical in reducing emissions and showcasing the versatility of soybeans in building a cleaner, greener future.