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Bio Fuel

Bio Fuel is an alternative to fossil fuels like oil and coal, that's derived from organic sources such as sugar cane, corn and soybeans. These natural fuel sources are renewable because they can be replenished rapidly. The two main types of bio fuel are ethanol and bio diesel.

Ethanol - an alcohol - is made primarily from the starch in corn grain and is used an an additive for petroleum-based products to reduce toxic air emissions and increase octane. Approximately half the gasoline sold in Connecticut and in the United States includes between 5 percent and 10 percent ethanol. Many experts believe that, in the coming years, more and more of the fuel we use will have greater and greater concentrations of ethanol, and therefore, less gasoline derived from oil.

Biodiesel refers to a diesel-equivalent derived from vegetable oils that can be blended with standard diesel fuel for use in vehicles with diesel engines. Biodiesel is biodegradable and non-toxic, and typically produces about 60% fewer carbon dioxide emissions than regular diesel. No modifications to a diesel powered vehicle are necessary to utilize biodiesel blended with standard diesel up to a 20% blend (commonly referred to as B20). While higher percentage blends may work equally as well, further testing is being done by the industry. It is recommended that you check with your engine manufacturer before utilizing a biodiesel blend.

A common misconception is that biodiesel and pure vegetable oil are the same thing. This is not the case. In order to run a diesel vehicle on pure vegetable oil, modifications, including a separate fuel tank that heats the vegetable oil, must be undertaken.

While bio fuels are better for the environment, some people speculate that they may be not so great for the economy. By putting more vegetables in our gas tank, will that mean higher prices for the veggies we put on our dinner plates?