Today we celebrate National Biodiesel Day, observed annually on the birthday of Rudolph Diesel, who is a German inventor and a mechanical engineer, famous for inventing the Diesel engine.

At one point the world ran on petroleum fuels, a fossil-based fuel which is a non-renewable source of energy.  Petroleum fuel was formed from the remains of ancient marine organisms, such as plants, algae, and bacteria.  The process of extracting petroleum fuel is one of the most environmentally hazardous in the world.  Oil spills can pollute land and aquatic ecosystems for decades.  Due to the side effect of fuel on the environment, Biodiesel was invented.

Biodiesel is a renewable fuel made from biomass.  Most U. S. biodiesel is made from vegetable oils and animal fats.  Currently, U.S. biodiesel production is primarily from soybean oil which is mostly from recycled restaurant cooking oil.

One of the major selling points of biodiesel is that it is environmentally friendly.  It has fewer emissions than standard diesel.  It is biodegradable, and a renewable source of energy.  Of the current biofuels, biodiesel is the only one to have successfully completed emissions testing in accordance with the Clean Air Act.  Biodiesel contributes to an engine’s lubricity.  It acts as a solvent, which helps loosen deposits and gunk from the insides of an engine potentially causes clogs.  This results in increased engine life.  It is safer, non-toxic, and has a higher flashpoint than conventional diesel.

As public awareness grows, let us celebrate this day by learning more about the benefits of the usage of biodiesel, of how it can help in preserving our environment in the future.