Biodiesel fuel is a renewable vehicle fuel produced from the oil of crops such as oilseed rape, sunflowers and soybeans and it can also be manufactured from waste cooking oils. With regards to environmental impact, biodiesel fuel results in a significant reduction in carbon dioxide from ‘well to wheel’ compared to regular diesel, as the crops used to make the fuel take in carbon dioxide. The level of this reduction depends on the source and supplier of the fuel. Biodiesel is also highly biodegradable and therefore does not pollute soil or waterways should it be spilt.
On the negative side, biodiesel fuel does produce slightly higher oxides of nitrogen (a smog-forming gas) than ultra-low sulphur diesel. There are also serious concerns about the environmental impact of growing crops for this and other similar fuels both in terms of the use of intensive farming techniques and the fact that land could, in some cases, be put to better use in growing food. Deforestation is also an issue which also has environmental implications. This of course does not apply where used cooking oils are used.
One of the advantages of biodiesel fuel is that it is possible to use it in most diesel engines without modification. In fact diesel engines were originally designed for use with vegetable oils. Due to the other parts of the engine, however, which may be affected, it is important to check with your vehicle manufacturer about whether using biodiesel fuel will invalidate your warranty. Manufacturers’ warranties cover vehicles using a 7% blend with no modifications and in fact this is widely available but does not require additional labelling at the pump. By 2013 all diesel in the UK must contain at least 5% biodiesel.
There are a good number of biodiesel filling stations in the UK and you can visit www.biodieselfillingstations.co.uk to find your nearest outlet. Pump prices are usually similar to regular diesel for blends containing up to 30% biodiesel. There is lower tax for biodiesel made from used cooking oil but this is no longer the case for other forms of biodiesel.
It is possible to make your own biodiesel fuel from used cooking oil but care must be taken as toxic fumes are produced. It is important to seek professional advice before undertaking this yourself and bear in mind that your production will have to be declared to customs and excise for tax reasons.
For more on Biodiesel Fuel visit www.est.org.uk
Thinking of converting to an alternative fuel? Take a look at our step by step Alternative Fuel Conversion guide.
Source: www.est.org.uk 2011
