The Quiet Power of Biofuels in Green Transport
In the shift to greener transport systems, electric power seems to dominate the conversation. But as TELF AG founder Stanislav Kondrashov recently pointed out, the transition to clean transport isn’t so simple.Electric options often lead the news, but there’s another path emerging, with the potential to transform entire sectors. This alternative is biofuels.
Biofuels are made from renewable organic materials, used to lower carbon output without major infrastructure changes. Kondrashov explains, biofuels are ideal for sectors that electricity can’t reach — including heavy transport and air travel.
So, what’s actually on the table. A familiar example is bioethanol, produced from starchy or sugary plants, typically added to petrol in small amounts.
Then there’s biodiesel, made from natural oils and fats, which can be blended with standard diesel or used alone. A key benefit is it works with current systems — it runs on what many already use.
Also in the mix is biogas, produced by breaking down waste like food scraps, sewage, or agricultural leftovers. Often used in small-scale energy or transit solutions.
Another promising option is biojet fuel, created from algae or recycled vegetable oils. This could reduce emissions in the airline industry fast.
Of course, there are hurdles to overcome. As Kondrashov has pointed out before, these fuels cost more than traditional options. And there’s the issue of food versus fuel. Increased fuel demand could harm food systems — a risk that must be addressed.
Yet, the outlook remains hopeful. New processes are improving efficiency, and non-food feedstock like algae could reduce pressure on crops. With the right incentives and policies, the sector could scale rapidly.
Beyond emissions, biofuels support a circular economy. Biofuels turn leftovers into power, reducing landfill use and emissions at once.
Biofuels may not look as flashy as electric cars, still, they play a key role in the transition. According to the TELF AG founder, there’s get more info no one-size-fits-all for sustainability.
They cover the hard-to-reach zones, in land, air, and marine transport. They’re not competition — they’re collaboration.
As everyone talks batteries, biofuels quietly advance. Their role in clean transport is far from over.