Biofuels

Biofuels are gaining global attention—and with good reason. As the world works to cut greenhouse gas emissions, sustainable fuels made from renewable sources are becoming a key part of the solution.  

At Cargill, our first priority will always be nourishing the world. We believe agriculture can do both: feed people and fuel progress. That’s why we’re helping develop biofuel solutions that reduce emissions—without compromising food security. 

What are biofuels? 

Biofuels are energy sources made from renewable biological materials—like crops, agricultural byproducts, or food waste. They’re used to power everything from cars and trucks to ships and planes. 

Unlike fossil fuels, biofuels come from recently living material, which can often regrow. That makes them a renewable energy source and a cleaner alternative to traditional fuel. 

How are biofuels made—and how are they used? 

Biofuels are made by processing organic materials, also called feedstocks. That includes crops like corn and soybeans, waste oils like used cooking oil, or animal fats like tallow. 

Here’s a quick breakdown: 

A table showing what each biofuel type is used for

 

At Cargill, we’re already producing biofuels today using food waste like used cooking oil and tallow—materials that would otherwise go to landfill. 

Are biofuels renewable and sustainable? 

Yes—with the right feedstocks and practices, biofuel is renewable. It’s made from organic materials that can regenerate and be reused. And it helps reduce reliance on fossil fuels. 

But there’s more to the story. At Cargill, we know: 

Biofuels aren’t the end goal—they’re a bridge. A necessary step in the world’s shift to sustainable energy. 

We focus on: 

  • Using non-food waste like tallow and used oil 
  • Working with farmers to protect food security 
  • Investing in sustainable fuel systems that reduce lifecycle emissions

Do biofuels compete with food? 

This is one of the most asked—and misunderstood—questions.

The answer: No. In fact, 92% of all crops are used to feed people and animals, and agriculture is already meeting food needs while supporting renewable fuel.

92% of all crops are used to feed people and animals, and agriculture is already meeting food needs while supporting renewable fuel. 

At Cargill, our first priority will always be nourishing the world. That’s why we: 

  • Use waste streams as feedstocks wherever possible 
  • Work directly with farmers and food systems to ensure balance 
  • Advocate for both food and fuel security 

What’s the difference between biodiesel, renewable diesel, and ethanol? 

This question comes up often, especially in policy and media coverage. Here’s a simple table to break it down: 

A table showing what a biofuel is made from and used for

Can biofuels really reduce transportation emissions? 

Yes—and that’s a big reason they matter. 

Roughly 14% of all greenhouse gas emissions come from transport—including how we move food from where it’s grown to where it’s needed. 

Biofuels can reduce emissions in: 

  • Trucks and rail used for freight and food delivery 
  • Ships used in ocean transportation (like ours) 
  • Aircraft, through sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) 

Cargill is also using renewable fuels in our own fleet, including wind-assisted ocean vessels and advanced biofuel-powered coasters.