Bio-fuels
Ethanol
Ethanol is a biodegradable clean burning fuel that can be made from renewable resources such as grain, wood or municipal waste. It is sold as a blend with gasoline. Most conventional gasoline vehicles can use up to 10% ethanol without any modifications. Ethanol is available for Canadian drivers at 10,000 retailing stations. Note: Ethanol fuel is not currently available in Nova Scotia.
Taking all factors into account during its production and use, ethanol from grain has about 40 percent fewer GHG emissions than gasoline, and cellulosic ethanol has about 80 percent fewer emissions than gasoline.
Biodiesel
Biodiesel is a biodegradable, clean burning alternative fuel, produced from domestic, renewable resources. It is usually sold as a blend with diesel.
It is made by chemically combining any natural oil or fat (such as vegetable oils and animal fats) with an alcohol (such as methanol or ethanol). Compared with conventional diesel, biodiesel combusts better and produces fewer GHG emissions that contribute to climate change.
Although these technologies sound simple, they require proven technology to make quality products consistently. The current key biodiesel markets are mass transit, marine, and other environmentally sensitive areas, such as mines. The potential for biodiesel in these markets is still being researched. Some commercial fleets that operate in Canada are using it; however biodiesel is not yet widely available to Canadian drivers.
Sign up for our Newsletter for a chance to WIN a $50 gift certificate!
What's your car's fuel efficiency rating?
Find out here!
