California skylines are greener thanks to one industry leader’s contributions. At the California Advanced Biofuel Alliance annual conference on March 1, the National Biodiesel Board honored that leader, Celia DuBose, with the Climate Leader Award.

“California air quality is shaped in large part by people who are passionate about renewable energy and low carbon alternatives,” said Jennifer Case, CEO of New Leaf Biofuel and the chair of CABA. “Celia’s leadership has had a significant impact on our state’s clean air initiatives. Her contributions will leave a lasting impact for biodiesel and, perhaps more importantly, for California air quality that will last generations.”

Celia was the first employee and a founding member of the California Biodiesel Alliance, an organization committed to enhancing access to cleaner-burning biodiesel. She played a key role in grassroots biodiesel development efforts in the Bay Area and has been a leader and trusted resource on biodiesel technical and policy issues in California for well over a decade. Celia’s leadership played a vital role in making California the largest biodiesel market in the nation. She is truly a pioneer on both biodiesel and environmental issues. As the group’s longstanding executive director, Celia oversaw the organization’s recent expansion into representation of other renewable diesel replacement fuels and rebranding as the California Advanced Biofuel Alliance. Celia is a graduate of the University of California, Berkeley.

“Our industry is full of amazing leaders whose dedication and commitment have helped biodiesel grow from an idea to a nearly 3 billion gallon market in just 25 years,” said Donnell Rehagen, NBB CEO. “Thanks to people like Celia, who has been a central figure since day one, the biodiesel industry now supports some 64,000 jobs, making a significant impact on communities spread throughout the country. There is no doubt California and biodiesel wouldn’t be the same without Celia.”

The Climate Leader Award is national honor awarded to those whose contributions have had a specific and lasting impact on expanding access to cleaner burning fuels. Their influence has had a significant effect on biodiesel industry growth, access or acceptance and has opened doors for energy alternatives for the benefit of the climate and environment.