As Saudi Arabia shifts its focus towards a greener future, the Kingdom is exploring biodiesel as a promising solution to enhance air quality and combat climate change. Historically reliant on oil and gas, Saudi Arabia aims to diversify its energy resources and adopt sustainable practices for future generations.
Biodiesel, a renewable and clean-burning fuel derived from sources such as vegetable oils, animal fats, and recycled cooking oils, has emerged as a viable alternative to petroleum-based diesel. According to the US National Renewable Energy Laboratory, biodiesel can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 86 percent compared to conventional diesel, making it a significant contributor to global climate goals.
In Europe and the US, biodiesel has gained traction as a sustainable fuel, with the European Biodiesel Board reporting nearly 200 production plants generating about 13 million tonnes annually. The fuel’s environmental benefits include lower emissions of harmful chemicals such as carbon monoxide, sulfur oxides, and unburned hydrocarbons.
David Woollard, Director of the European Biodiesel Board, emphasized that biodiesel not only mitigates harmful emissions but also enhances energy security by reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels. This aligns with Saudi Arabia’s green agenda and its efforts to address air pollution and climate change.
In Saudi Arabia, Red Sea Global, a real estate development company, has taken a leading role by adopting low-carbon biofuels for its delivery vehicles. This biofuel emits just 0.17 kilograms of carbon dioxide per liter, a significant reduction from the 2.7 kilograms per liter produced by traditional diesel. Such measures not only contribute to environmental preservation but also positively impact public health by reducing the incidence of diseases linked to diesel exhaust.
The Kingdom’s commitment to adopting biodiesel aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, which include stricter air emission standards and improved environmental regulations. However, challenges remain, particularly due to the Kingdom’s reliance on energy-intensive industries such as desalination and petrochemicals.
Widespread biodiesel adoption, particularly in heavy-duty transportation, is critical for reducing air pollution and achieving the Vision 2030 sustainable development targets. Globally, biodiesel blends like B20, which combines 20 percent biodiesel with 80 percent traditional diesel, are increasingly used for their cost-effectiveness, reduced emissions, and compatibility with existing engines. As noted by the US Department of Energy, B20 can decrease particulate matter emissions and greenhouse gases, offsetting the carbon dioxide released during combustion with the carbon absorbed by biodiesel-producing plants.
