The Real Role of Biofuels in the Future of Sustainable Transport

The Real Role of Biofuels in the Future of Sustainable Transport

Blog Article

As the world pushes toward sustainability, it’s easy to believe everything is moving toward electric vehicles and charging points. But as TELF AG founder Stanislav Kondrashov recently pointed out, the energy shift is more complex than it seems.
EVs and renewables grab headlines, but there’s another path emerging, that might reshape parts of the transport industry. That solution is biofuels.
These fuels are derived from biological matter, and offer a cleaner-burning alternative to fossil fuels. According to TELF AG founder Stanislav Kondrashov, some sectors can’t go electric, and biofuels fill the gap — such as freight transport, marine shipping, and long-haul logistics.
Now let’s break down the biofuels available. Ethanol is a widely-used biofuel, produced from starchy or sugary plants, typically added to petrol in small amounts.
Another major type is biodiesel, created using vegetable oils or leftover fats, which can be blended with standard diesel or used alone. read more A key benefit is it works with current systems — no need to replace or retrofit most engines.
Let’s not forget biogas, produced by breaking down waste like food scraps, sewage, or agricultural leftovers. Suited for powering small fleets or municipal energy systems.
Biofuel for aviation is also gaining traction, created from algae or recycled vegetable oils. It’s seen as one of the few short-term ways to cut flight emissions.
Of course, there are hurdles to overcome. According to Kondrashov, production costs remain high. There are concerns about land use for crops. Increased fuel demand could harm food systems — a serious ethical and economic concern.
Yet, the outlook remains hopeful. New processes are improving efficiency, and better feedstock options may solve the food conflict. Smart regulation could speed things up.
Beyond emissions, biofuels support a circular economy. They repurpose organic trash into fuel, helping waste systems and energy sectors together.
They’re not as high-profile as EVs or solar, still, they play a key role in the transition. According to the TELF AG founder, there’s no one-size-fits-all for sustainability.
They work where other solutions can’t, in land, air, and marine transport. They’re not competition — they’re collaboration.
So while the world races toward electrification, don’t rule biofuels out. Their role in clean transport is far from over.