Latest news - Fuels
Second-generation biofuel takes off
Last week an Air New Zealand 747-400 took off from Auckland International Airport to test a second-generation biofuel based on jatropha.
Bacteria genetically-modified to produce biofuels
US researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles have genetically modified the common bacteria Escherichia coli, to produce molecules central to the production of biofuels.
US looks set to fail to meet biofuels target
The US will not be able to meet the target of 36 billion gallons of biofuels by 2022 set by the Bush Administration, according to projections by the Energy Information Administration.
Australia commits to cuts and invests in renewables
The Australian Government has promised to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 15% compared with 1990 levels by 2020, but only if global leaders reach an agreement in Copenhagen next year.
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California adopts comprehensive climate change action plan
California has formally committed itself to a package of measures that will reduce the state’s greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2020 – a 15% reduction on current levels.
New Zealand overturns biofuels mandate
New Zealand’s new government, led by Prime Minister John Key, has overturned the biofuels obligation introduced by the previous government earlier this year, which required oil companies to sell a proportion of biofuel.
Wake up and smell the coffee-derived biodiesel
Waste coffee grounds could provide a cheap, abundant and environmentally friendly source of biofuel for cars, according to researchers from the University of Nevada have found.
Europe reaches compromise on climate policy
The European Union has agreed a compromise deal that will increase the region’s share of renewable energy to 20% by 2020 but still includes a controversial 10% target for biofuels.
Japan to work with Better Place on electric vehicles
Better Place, the electric car infrastructure developer, is teaming up with Subaru-maker Fuji Heavy Industries and other Japanese carmakers, including Honda, on an electric vehicle project for the country.
Hawaii signs up to electric car network
The Governor of Hawaii Linda Lingle has signed a deal with Better Place to add the state to the growing list of countries and regions developing an electric cars infrastructure.