Recent scenario and technologies to utilize non-edible oils for biodiesel production

Abstract

It is well known that energy consumption is rapidly increasing due to population growth, higher standard of living and increased production. Significant amounts of energy resources are being consumed by the transportation sector leading to the fast depletion of fossil fuels and environmental pollution. Biodiesel is one of the technically and economically feasible options to tackle the aforesaid problems. Biodiesel is produced mainly from edible oils. However, it is believed that the extensive use of edible oils for biodiesel production may lead to food shortages in most of the developing countries. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to review the necessity and potentiality of the non-edible oils and to identify the emerging technologies to produce biodiesel. Special attention has been paid to the impact of biofuels on agricultural commodity prices and the food-fuel debate.