Missouri celebrates National Biodiesel Day by highlighting economic, environmental benefits

Photo: Missouri Soybeans

The Biodiesel Coalition of Missouri is recognizing National Biodiesel Day by emphasizing the economic, environmental and energy-security benefits of biodiesel, a Missouri-made fuel that continues to drive industry growth across the state.

National Biodiesel Day is celebrated annually on March 18 in honor of Rudolf Diesel, the inventor of the diesel engine.

Diesel originally designed his engine to run on peanut oil, showcasing the potential for renewable fuel long before petroleum-based diesel became the standard.

Today, biodiesel continues that legacy as a cleaner, renewable fuel made from soybean oil and other agricultural byproducts.

Missouri is a leader in biodiesel production, contributing to the state’s economy while reducing emissions and enhancing energy independence.

Biodiesel contributes $2 billion to Missouri’s gross domestic product and supports more than 5,500 jobs.

With a production capacity of 257 million gallons annually in Missouri, biodiesel strengthens rural economies while providing a reliable, renewable fuel source.

“Biodiesel isn’t just a cleaner fuel option, it’s a Missouri-made solution that enhances engine performance, supports local farmers and strengthens the state’s economy,” said Matt Amick, the Biodiesel Coalition of Missouri’s executive director.

“By increasing access to biodiesel infrastructure and expanding its use, we’re ensuring a stronger, more sustainable future for Missouri,” Amick said.

Biodiesel offers significant environmental advantages, including reducing greenhouse-gas emissions by up to 86 percent, lowering particulate emissions and improving engine performance due to increased lubricity and cetane levels.

The Biodiesel Coalition of Missouri is encouraging fuel retailers, farmers and policymakers to support the future of biodiesel in three key ways.

• Businesses and fuel retailers can take advantage of Missouri biodiesel incentives, including grants from the Missouri Agricultural and Small Business Development Authority, which covers up to 50 percent of project costs or up to $250,000 for those installing or upgrading biodiesel infrastructure.

• Consumers can support the industry by choosing biodiesel at the pump, as Missouri tax credits incentivize retailers offering blends of B5 or higher.

• Industry members can also engage with the Biodiesel Coalition of Missouri to stay informed and advocate for policies that support biodiesel growth.

To highlight biodiesel’s role in Missouri’s economy and transportation industry, the Biodiesel Coalition of Missouri will be releasing two educational videos.

The first will feature industry leaders and farmers discussing the economic and environmental benefits of biodiesel, while the second will showcase biodiesel production and its applications.

For more information about biodiesel in Missouri and to view the educational videos online, visit missouribiodiesel.org or follow the Biodiesel Coalition of Missouri on social media.