Researchers at Iowa State have a new facility to grow algae for a variety of uses, including biofuel production. This news release from the school says the facility’s innovative design is attracting a lot of interest from other universities and private industry. The facility contains a novel biofilm-based cultivation system designed by Martin Gross, a graduate assistant in agricultural and …
Reactions to EPA Vehicle Emissions Proprosed Rule
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has asked for comments regarding its proposed rule on Tier 3 Motor Vehicle Emission and Fuel Standards and the industry responded in force. Bob Dinneen, president and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) noted that for the most part, the air toxics the EPA is reviewing pertain to refiners of gasoline and auto manufacturers, …
July 1st – Independence Day for Iowa Fuel Retailers
July 1, 2013 has now become “Independence Day” for Iowa fuel retailers as today marks the enactment of a new Iowa law that frees Iowa retailers from some Big Oil restrictions. “Today, new liberties go into effect for Iowa’s fuel retailers. They now have the freedom to offer the fuel options they choose, not what Big Oil dictates,” said Iowa …
Cellectis Genetically Engineers Algae for Biofuels
French-based genome engineering specialist Cellectis announced it has successfully used engineered nucleases to genetically reprogram diatoms, a major group of algae, to produce biofuels. The company says its VP of Synthetic Biology and Technology, Dr. Fayza Daboussi, presented his research results at a meeting in Paris: The results presented at the “Molecular Life of Diatoms” meeting by Dr. Fayza Daboussi, …
RFS Fact Check
True or False? Natural gas is an approved alternative fuel under the Renewable Fuel Standard. False. It’s questions like these that arise as the debate around the RFS heats up. But minus having your own personal RFS assistant at your beck and call, the next best option may just be the new Energy Fact Check site created by the American …
DF Cast: Algae Backers’ Beef with DOE
Backers of algae, especially for biofuel production, say while the Department of Energy provides millions for universities to do research through the DOE Biomass Program, commercial enterprises are being left by the wayside. And they say that isn’t fair, and after 60 years of looking at the green microbes, researchers have developed nothing. In this edition of the Domestic Fuel …
Biofuel Industry Responds to RFS Hearing
Have you heard the recent saying, “You need to check yourself before you wreck yourself”? It seems to apply to the recent hearing on the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) held by the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Energy and Power. The hearings are part of the RFS evaluation program that also includes a series of white papers. Left to …
Free Webinar on New RFS2 NPRM
The EPA has released a new Notice of Proposed Rule Making: RFS Pathways II and Technical Amendments to the RFS2 Standards. EcoEngineers is offering a FREE webinar on July 10, 2013 from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm central standard time (CST). Some of the proposed changes include: New penalties for failure to meet certain RFS reporting deadlines. Additional requirements for …
Groups React to FAO Biofuels Study
Emotions are mixed regarding the findings in a recent report published by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) that was released in Rome during a meeting with ambassadors. The report found that biofuel from crops has a significant and direct impact on food prices and food availability. In response, ActionAid said the report shows how Europe’s biofuel targets are driving …
Biofuels & Iowa Pork – A Swinetiffic Relationship
Today is Iowa Swine Day (June 27) and the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) is taking a time to show how renewable fuels production is boosting the profitability of raising hogs in Iowa. “On Iowa Swine Day, it’s important to remember that a strong renewable fuels industry means a strong hog industry here in Iowa,” said IRFA Executive Director Monte …