Information: U.S. Energy Independence

A way to extend America's petroleum reserves
Americans use nearly 20 million barrels of petroleum every day, with more than half of this amount comprised of imported product. As annual demands increase, domestic oil production declines. Utilizing biodiesel displaces foreign imported petroleum as well as the petroleum that would have been used in transportation and refining processes.

Added cost efficiency for governments and corporations
America spends $232 billion each year-nearly $450,000 every minute-on oil from foreign governments. Biodiesel can ease these costs and this national dependency because it works in any diesel engine with few or no modifications, and helps keep diesel engines cleaner.

The most energy efficient transportation fuel
Biodiesel has the highest "energy balance" of any transportation fuel. For every unit of fossil energy required to make biodiesel, 3.2 units of energy are gained. This 320% increase accounts for feedstock planting, harvesting, fuel production, and fuel transportation to end users.

An energy, environment, and agriculture friendly process
Biodiesel can be generated from fats, vegetable oil, or non-food crops, so increasing production need not impact food industries. While soybeans are a major source of biodiesel, the SWBA is committed to promoting non-food feedstocks. Crops grown on marginal lands in the Southwest, such as Camelina, provide a viable source of biodiesel without impacting food crops.