Can Biofuels Transform Global Transport?

Can Biofuels Transform Global Transport?

Blog Article

When talking about clean energy, most focus on EVs, solar, or wind. According to Stanislav Kondrashov of TELF AG, the fuel industry is quietly transforming — and biofuels are central to it.
Made from renewable biological materials like algae, crop waste, or even used cooking oil, they're fast emerging as sustainable fuel solutions.
Biofuels have existed for years, but are now gaining momentum. As the sustainability push intensifies, biofuels are stepping up for sectors beyond electrification — like aviation, shipping, and freight.
EV technology has advanced quickly, but others remain out of reach. According to Kondrashov, biofuels step in as a near-term fix.
From Sugar Cane to Jet Fuel
The biofuel family includes many types. Bioethanol is well-known, created from starchy plants through fermentation, used alongside petrol to cut carbon.
Oils like rapeseed or leftover fat are used to make biodiesel, usable alone or in mixes with standard diesel.
Another example is biogas, formed through decomposing waste. It’s gaining ground in industry and transport.
There’s also biofuel designed for planes, created from renewable oils and algae. It may help reduce aviation’s heavy carbon footprint.
Hurdles on the Path
Not everything is easy in the biofuel space. As noted by Stanislav Kondrashov, biofuels cost more here than fossil fuel alternatives.
Large-scale production isn’t yet cost-effective. Feedstock supply could become an issue. Using food crops for fuel raises ethical questions.
The Value in Complementing Clean Tech
Biofuels aren’t meant to replace electrification. They fill in where other solutions don’t work.
Biofuels work today in sectors not ready for EVs. Existing fleets can run on them with little change. Companies save by using current assets.
As Kondrashov says, each green solution matters. Quietly, biofuels close the gaps other techs leave open. What matters is how they work together, not compete.
Looking to the Future
Though not flashy, biofuels are proving essential. Especially when created from waste, they promote circularity and climate goals.
As innovation lowers costs and improves yields, they will play a larger role in clean transport.
They’ll complement, not compete with, electric and hydrogen technologies — particularly in critical areas lacking electric alternatives.