It is a plant derived, not petroleum derived, and such its combustion does
not increase current net atmospheric levels of CO2, a ‘greenhouse’ gas.
- It can be domestically produced, offering the possibility of reducing
petroleum imports.
- It is biodegradable.
- Relative to conventional diesel fuel, its combustion products have reduced
level of particulates, carbon monoxide, sulfur oxides, hydrocarbons etc.
- Vegetable oils can be used in diesel engines as they have high octane
number and calorific value very close to diesel