The BQ-9000 program continues to grow as biodiesel production volumes continue to increase.  With this increase comes a responsibility for fuel quality as it is the driving force for a continued demand for biodiesel in the marketplace.  High-quality fuel continues to build consumer confidence in biodiesel, and consumers can rest assured knowing that biodiesel procured through BQ-9000 accredited organizations has undergone strict adherence to quality management practices. 

BQ-9000 is a voluntary fuel quality assurance program in the U.S. and Canada that is overseen by the National Biodiesel Accreditation Commission.  The program is a unique combination of the ASTM standard for biodiesel, ASTM D6751, and a quality systems program that includes storage, sampling, testing, blending, shipping, distribution and fuel management practices that ensure quality for consumers. These quality controls above and beyond the ASTM standard ensure that only the highest quality product reaches the marketplace.

The program is open to anyone in the biodiesel industry that falls in one of the three categories: BQ-9000 Producer, BQ-9000 Marketer or BQ-9000 Laboratory.

The BQ-9000 program recently welcomed three new producer members and two new marketer members to its ranks. This year’s new BQ-9000 Producer members include Sequential Pacific Biodiesel of Salem, Ore., and REG Seneca of Seneca, Ill., both of which became certified in January; and RBF Port Neches of Port Neches, Texas, which became certified in March. The new BQ-9000 Marketer members include Trafigura AG of Houston, which became certified in January, and Castle Oil of Harrison, N.Y., which became certified in March.

These new additions to the BQ-9000 program show the continued commitment to fuel quality in the biodiesel industry.

For more information or to inquire about becoming a BQ-9000 Accredited Organization, contact Kyle Anderson at the National Biodiesel Board office.