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Despite its recent popularity, biodiesel is definitely not a new idea. The first vegetable-oil powered machine was created in 1893, long before traditional diesel fuels emerged. Although car manufacturers opted at first to use petroleum-based fuels, there was brief period during the first world war and in the 1920's were vegetable oils were seriously considered for use in vehicles due to shortened supplies. However, petroleum seemed to be more efficient and was less viscous then the biodiesels.
More than eighty years later, as the world's petroleum supply continues to dwindle, Biodiesels have been surging in popularity. Special engine modifications have been introduced that can accept biofuels, and more bio-refineries are opening across the world. However, there are many arguments against modern biodiesel usage, including the possibility that growing crops for food would drive up the cost of food and cause shortages. - Biodiesels are very significant as one of the world's leading alternative fuels. Biodiesel is already used widely in Europe, and is gaining rapid popularity in places like the Midwest and California. Biodiesel also presents itself as one of the cheapest "clean" fuels, and access to biodiesel is much more widespread then access to hydrogen or battery power.
- There are many short and long term benefits to using biodiesel, the most immediate of which involves environmental impact. Biodiesel is clean-burning, and does not release harmful CO2 gasses like other petroleum-based fuels. Use of biodiesels also creates a domestic energy source, which is good for boosting local economies and ending dependence on foreign oil.
- However, there are many who point out the negative effects of using biodiesel. Because fuel demand is so high, if crops are grown specifically for fuel purposes, then domestic supply may not be enough for both agriculture and fuel purposes. If this scenario were taken a step further, many predict that food and fuel prices would skyrocket, which could have devastating economic implications.
- Many people have strayed away from using biodiesel fuels for fear that the viscous product will add extra wear on their engines. However, because biodiesel burns cleaner than traditional fossil fuels it can actually prevent engine wear and tear, extending performance of fuel injection engine components.
