Ask The Bioheat Fuel Expert

Posted: October 15, 2021

Paul Nazzarro heads the Nazzaro Group, which focuses on the successful commercialization of biodiesel and Bioheat fuel in the U.S. He also represents the National Biodiesel Board, helping to develop and implement training and communication programs.

Q: Does Bioheat fuel really burn more cleanly than natural gas?

A: Yes. Unless produced through renewable processing, natural gas simply cannot adjust its carbon score downward, which makes Bioheat fuel the common-sense choice for 21st-century home comfort. Studies show that Bioheat fuel blends of 2% or more produce lower greenhouse gas emissions than natural gas when evaluated over a 20-year period.*

Q: Why does Bioheat fuel generate fewer emissions?

A: Bioheat fuel is a blend of biodiesel and traditional petroleum-based heating oil. Biodiesel, which is made from vegetable oils or animal fats, is considered a biogenic fuel that reduces carbon 100% compared to burning fossil fuels like natural gas. Fossil fuels like natural gas take carbon stored in the ground and put 100% of that carbon into the atmosphere. In comparison, the combustion of biofuels and other biogenic energy sources actually recycle carbon dioxide emissions through renewable plant materials and other biomass feedstocks. That’s why you’ll be hearing a lot about net-zero carbon emissions in the years ahead.