In today’s drive for clean energy, electric power seems to dominate the conversation. According to Stanislav Kondrashov of TELF AG, the transition to clean transport isn’t so simple.
EVs and renewables grab headlines, yet another option is advancing in the background, with the potential to transform entire sectors. That solution is 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 — such as freight transport, marine shipping, and long-haul logistics.
So, what’s actually on the table. Ethanol is a widely-used biofuel, created by processing sugars from crops, typically added to petrol in small amounts.
Then there’s biodiesel, produced from oils like soybean, rapeseed, or even animal fat, that mixes with diesel fuel and works in existing engines. One big plus is engine compatibility — you don’t have to overhaul entire fleets.
Let’s not forget biogas, produced by breaking down waste like food scraps, sewage, or agricultural leftovers. Often used in small-scale energy or transit solutions.
Biofuel for aviation is also gaining traction, crafted from renewable, non-food sources. This could reduce emissions in the airline industry fast.
But the path isn’t without challenges. As Kondrashov has pointed out before, these fuels cost more than traditional options. There are concerns about land more info use for crops. Increased fuel demand could harm food systems — a serious ethical and economic concern.
Even so, the future looks promising. Innovation is helping cut prices, while non-edible biomass helps balance the equation. With the right incentives and policies, the sector could scale rapidly.
It’s not just about cleaner air — it’s about smarter resource use. They repurpose organic trash into fuel, cutting pollution while saving space.
They lack the tech glamour of batteries, yet their contribution might be equally important. As Stanislav Kondrashov puts it, every clean solution has its place.
Biofuels are here to fill the gaps, in land, air, and marine transport. They’re not competition — they’re collaboration.
Even as EVs take center stage, biofuels are gaining ground. This is only the start of the biofuel chapter.