ICLEI Biodiesel Research Project 2006-07

A total of 50 councils from five states participated in the research process via surveys designed to capture existing knowledge and understanding of biodiesel and also determine the current level of uptake in Australian local governments.    Councils with demonstrated experience in biodiesel implementation were invited to participate as well as those that either had considered or were in the process of considering its uptake.

Biodiesel producers/suppliers were also invited to participate.  Of those contacted, seven participated via an industry-focused survey and two were available for extensive interviews, site visits and follow-up correspondence.  Of the industry users contacted, three participated via phone interviews.  

Additional industry stakeholders, such as associations, research institutions, government departments, consultants and user groups, also assisted considerably in the research process via formal meetings, email and phone correspondence.  

Project Findings

As a result of this research process,  benefits and issues associated with biodiesel uptake were identified, as well as opportunities for the future of the industry in Australia, in relation to local government.  These findings form the basis of a final report - "Biodiesel in Australia - Benefits, Issues and Opportunities for Local Governmetn Uptake".

The focus of the report is specifically directed towards two primary audiences:

• Mayors, elected members, CEOs and upper management, and,
• Environment teams and officers.

Project Outcomes

For Mayors, elected members, CEOs and upper management, the final report provides:

• A comprehensive biodiesel information resource and overview of the associated risks and benefits;
• The ability to determine its appropriateness for council uptake;
• The opportunity to learn from other councils, adapt current processes and/or implement best-practice strategies based on their experiences and testimonials;
• An opportunity to assess council’s position on biodiesel within a national context - the implications of current/future council policies and strategies and the role council can play in determining the future of the industry in Australia;
• An opportunity to create user networks and initiate collaboration on plans and strategies for future local government interaction with biodiesel.

For environment teams and officers, the final report also provides:

• An understanding of project implementation - potential issues, how to overcome them and factors for success;
• Council contacts for support and assistance;
• Resources that will assist in preparing a project proposal.

The final report provides readers:

• A context for biodiesel uptake, in terms of current fossil fuel usage and its implications;
• A comprehensive account of the technical and operational properties of biodiesel;
• An insight into local government experiences of biodiesel uptake including benefits and issues;
• Local government snapshots and testimonials regarding biodiesel use at council;
• An overview of future opportunities for biodiesel uptake by local governments;
• A list of useful links for further information and materials on specific aspects of biodiesel and its use;
• A summary reference list of the benefits and issues associated with biodiesel uptake;
• A checklist for local government uptake of biodiesel to assist with the planning and implementation of a successful biodiesel project;
• A state-categorised reference list of local governments in Australia with biodiesel projects, including information on the application, biodiesel blend and date of implementation;
• A sample fuel specification that led to the successful negotiation of a fuel contract, supplied by a Victorian council;
• Five detailed case studies from local government in three states (2 in Victoria, 2 in NSW and 1 in SA), highlighting the background, aim, implementation process, obstacles, success factors, benefits and other outcomes of their projects;
• Contact details for further follow-up with case study councils and the opportunity to contact other councils that participated in the research process.