As part of today’s celebration of National Biodiesel Day, the Illinois Soybean Association’s B20 Club announced its sponsorship of the Chicago Area Clean Cities coalition (CACC). Through its support of the CACC, the B20 Club is helping promote the use of biodiesel for its environmental, economic and sustainable benefits.
The B20 Club is a checkoff-funded program jointly sponsored by ISA and the American Lung Association in Illinois that recognizes Illinois-based fleets running on biodiesel blends of 20%.
“By promoting biodiesel’s benefits through CACC, we can play a greater role in reducing our state’s carbon footprint and supporting local economies,” says Gary Berg, ISA Director. “Furthermore, increased biodiesel consumption supports Illinois farmers by creating more demand for soybean oil, which ultimately builds a more sustainable future for Illinois.”
Soybean oil, a feedstock used in nearly 50 percent of biodiesel production, helps reduce our dependence on imported petroleum. B20 Club members also choose biodiesel for its fuel savings and emission reduction. The Club’s annual reduction in CO2 emissions is the equivalent of planting 10,638 trees. More information about the Club is available.
“We are grateful for the support of the B20 Club and Illinois Soybean Association. Together, we can create increased awareness about biodiesel’s ease of use and environmental benefits,” says John Walton, vice chairman of Chicago Area Clean Cities. “Last year our coalition’s 150 members had the impact of removing 53,000 passenger cars from the road. This partnership is likely to increase this positive impact.”