Altaf Albaho

In the current linear economy, natural resources are assumed to be plentiful, easily accessible, and reasonably priced. However, this assumption is untenable, given that the world travels beyond its ecological bounds. The circular economy (CE), on the other hand, is a more sustainable alternative to the prevalent linear model since it decreases waste and increases resource efficiency. Waste-based biofuels derived from used cooking oil, animal fats, and industrial food waste offer a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels, reducing waste while contributing to a circular economy. This enhances energy security while lowering greenhouse gas emissions. However, integrating waste-to-biofuel technologies necessitates addressing environmental, technological, and socioeconomic challenges. Globally, governments are starting to realize that petroleum is no longer the best fuel option in terms of pollution, health, and geopolitical harmony. Since petroleum oil is a finite resource, its price will only increase as it becomes more scarce. For example, biodiesel from consumed cooking oil and hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) are waste-derived biofuels that offer a low-carbon substitute for traditional petroleum fuels, lowering greenhouse gas emissions and dependency on fossil fuels. Compared to petroleum diesel, biodiesel is non-toxic, renewable, and biodegradable. It also burns cleaner in diesel engines. Biodiesel is less harmful to the environment and is especially better in case of a spill or leak. 

Kuwait Petroleum International (KPI) is a part of the BioSFerA project, a large-scale European endeavor to create innovative, high-performing biofuels to lower greenhouse gas emissions in aviation and maritime sectors. The project's goal is to validate an integrated thermochemical-biochemical approach to developing affordable technology for sustainable marine and aviation fuels. KPI contributes to the BioSFerA project by supporting the development of advanced biofuels through innovative gasification and microbial fermentation technologies. This aligns with its commitment to sustainable energy solutions and low-carbon fuel alternatives. Furthermore, the Imdad initiative in Kuwait was the first biodiesel production facility, which will initially be capable of producing 240,000 liters per month. One of the sustainable biofuels the Imdad project provides is pure biodiesel B-100, which can be mixed to create other grades like B-5. Suitable for use in existing equipment, such as boilers, heating equipment, locomotives, marine engines, electricity generation, and all major diesel engine manufacturers, to satisfy local and international standards. Although Imdad's primary product is biodiesel, the process also produces other goods, all of which have applications. Crude glycerin is a by-product of the process of making biodiesel. Foods, medicines, soaps, and other products can all contain glycerin. The Imdad Project in Kuwait faces challenges in converting used cooking oil (UCO) into biodiesel, including feedstock collection logistics, contamination from food residues, and refining compatibility, which can be addressed through structured collection networks, advanced filtration technologies, and refinery co-processing innovations. In addition, cost competitiveness and supply chain development are crucial factors for the advancement of biofuel market.