By Susanne Retka Schill

Web exclusive posted Feb. 19, 2008, at 1:20 p.m. CST

A recently released study of the biodiesel industry found that the industry is entering four fundamental transitions: from traditional soy, rapeseed and palm oil feedstocks to alternative, nonfood feedstocks; from commercial markets in developed countries to emerging markets in developing nations; from first-generation plants to second-generation technologies; and from first-stage government policies to revised policies favoring sustainable fuels.

The report, Biodiesel 2020:A Global Market Survey, published by Emerging Markets Online, is in its second edition. The fact-filled study is targeted at financiers, producers, developers, distributors, consultants and analysts. Author Will Thurmond said the current period of rapid transitional growth is creating both uncertainty and opportunity. “In the year 2007, there were only 20 oil-producing nations supplying the needs of more than 200 nations,” he said. “By the year 2010, more than 200 nations will become biodiesel-producing nations and suppliers.”

The study includes profiles and analyses of emerging biodiesel feedstocks, including jatropha, tallow, waste vegetable oil, yellow grease and algae, as well as renewable diesel ventures. It identifies and discusses other trends in the developing biodiesel industry worldwide.

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