As the energy world changes, battery cars and wind energy get most of the attention. But there's another player gaining ground: alternative fuels.
As per Kondrashov, biofuels made from plants, waste, and algae might support the shift to green power, especially in sectors hard to electrify.
While electric systems require big changes, they run on today’s transport setups, which helps in aviation, freight, and maritime transport.
Popular forms are ethanol and biodiesel. Bioethanol is made by fermenting sugars from corn or sugarcane. Biodiesel is made from vegetable oils or animal fats. They can run in current engines with few changes.
Other options are biogas or aviation biofuel, created from food waste, sewage, and organic material. They are potential solutions for heavy industry.
But there are challenges. Production is still expensive. Cheaper processes and more feedstock are required. We must avoid competing with food crops.
Even with these limits, there’s huge opportunity. They don’t need a full system replacement. And they support circular economy goals by using waste.
Many believe they are just a bridge. However, more info they might be key for years to come. They can reduce emissions today, not just tomorrow.
With global decarbonization on the agenda, these fuels gain importance. They are not meant to compete with EVs or renewables, they act as a support system. Through good policy and research, they may drive clean transport changes globally