With biodiesel’s popularity on the rise, it’s time for those in the logistics industry to decide whether or not it’s a plausible alternative for them, or if they’re going to remain faithful to the fossil diesel that’s been their bread and butter all these years.
As society becomes more environmentally conscious, we’re continuously on the lookout for ways to reduce our carbon footprint.Because of this, many people are switching to biodiesel fuel. Obtained from used cooking oil and/or vegetable crops, it is both renewable and a low carbon alternative source to fossil diesel.
There are no legal requirements in place for transport or haulage companies to choose this sustainable fuel over traditional diesel, as yet, but many are still choosing to do so. Read on to see the pros (and the cons) of biodiesel and decide for yourself whether or not you agree with switching over. (If you want even more information on the subject, check out this post from Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership.)
Pros
- It’s great for motorway, city and suburban driving.
- When obtained from used cooking oil, the environmental repercussions are very low.
- Less particulate matter is discharged by vehicles that use it.
- It is renewable.
- CO2 emissions may be reduced when using biodiesel manufactured from used cooking oil.
- Biodiesel vehicles can also run on regular diesel, with no need for separate tanks for the two different fuels.
Cons
- They may require more maintenance than their diesel-fuelled counterparts.
- A vehicle’s fuel delivery system must be specifically engineered to be compatible with biodiesel.
- NOx emissions may be slightly heightened.
Similarities Between Biodiesel and Diesel
- The same mileage per tank.
- The vehicle’s carrying capacity isn’t affected.
- Tailpipe emissions are the same.
- Both are easily available.
- Noise and air quality are similar.
What are your opinions on using biodiesel fuel? Do you side with the environmental pros, or are the cons not worth the hassle and cost of updating (and then maintaining) your vehicle?
