The people who grow the most popular feedstock for biodiesel are recognizing the board that promotes the green fuel, and in turn, promotes the commodity and a market developer who is helping promote soybeans. The United Soybean Board (USB) recently awarded its Excellence in Oil Award to the National Biodiesel Board (NBB) and its Outstanding Achievement Award to international aquaculture market developer Michael Cremer, Ph.D.
“The board is excited to have the opportunity to honor both Dr. Cremer and NBB and thank them for their contributions to the U.S. soy industry,” says Bob Haselwood, USB chairman and soybean farmer from Berryton, Kansas. “Both recipients have played a large role in moving our industry forward, and for that we are extremely grateful.”
Biodiesel is one of the most researched renewable fuels on the market, and, as an advanced biofuel, one that is leading the way in the market. None of this would have been possible without the expertise and dedication of NBB. Checkoff-funded research shows biodiesel has added 74 cents per bushel to the price soybean farmers receive, increased domestic crush and returned value to the entire soybean industry – even those on the meal side of the equation.
“The National Biodiesel Board’s partnership with the United Soybean Board is the perfect example of teamwork that hits the ball out of the park every time,” says NBB CEO Joe Jobe. “As a key customer of U.S. soybean oil making a significant contribution to soybean profitability, we are truly honored to be recognized.”
Cremer, the U.S. Soybean Export Council’s international aquaculture senior program adviser, has dedicated more than 30 years to helping the U.S. soy industry realize its potential with a growing consumer of soy. Through his work in aquaculture, he helped the Asian aquaculture industry become a more sustainable industry that is using more U.S. soy every year in fish feed.
“I am deeply honored to receive this award,” says Cremer. “Working with the U.S. soybean industry has been the highlight of my career. I have been doubly blessed, to have had one of the best aquaculture jobs in the world and to work with folks that I call both colleagues and friends.”