Biodiesel Committee

The Biodiesel Committee of CCURISA is focusing on an alternate fuel which has far-reaching implications for the Washington DC metro region. Using the mapping expertise and web resources of our nonprofit, we hope to jumpstart awareness and availability of biodiesel. The Committee has developed a three stage program. The first stage raises awareness of biodiesel in the community. The second and third stages aim to increase access to the fuel and vehicles that would use biodiesel fuel.

STAGE I--FIGHT FUD (Fear, Uncertainty, Doubt)
• Map local biodiesel resources and publish a Washington, DC Biodiesel Resource Guide.
• Prepare a printed guide available for free, and an online, interactive map version which can pinpoint filling stations, dealers, and other biodiesel organizations. The interactive map should answer the questions, can I go from here to there on biodiesel? and, where can I get involved with biodiesel that is closest to me?
• Secure federal (EPA, DOE, USDA) and local government grants to assist in printing costs, and to educate the public in the processing of waste vegetable oil.
• Run demonstrations of the Dr. Pepper method of Biodiesel production to put individuals in touch with the chemistry of biodiesel (vegetable oil + HEET + Lye).
• Create a small income stream from the dissemination of reliable and accurate information. Produce and sell booklets. Sell sophisticated, printed matter that fights FUD.

STAGE II--BE BIODIESEL
• Develop a feasibility study for a separate biodiesel group, and publish it online.
• Fund a full time, paid position for a director of an independent biodiesel cooperative.
• Work with diesel motor vehicle manufacturers,including but not limited to VW and Mercedez Benz, to promote diesel vehicle usage.
• Prototype an urban, biodiesel scooter based on a small (less than 50cc wankel engine). Sell biodiesel scooter at a discount to cooperative members.

STAGE III--SELL BIODIESEL
• Convert Grease Alley, a local alleyway in DC which is located behind a restaurant rich mainstreet to Biodiesel Alley.
• Distribute biodiesel in DC using the Baltimore Biodiesel cooperative model.
• Work with established biodiesel facilities in the area

If you would like to participate in learning and using biodiesel then consider joining us, it's free.