With record biodiesel production this year, the industry has seen infrastructure continue to grow. A number of NBB members have reopened biodiesel production plants, opened new distribution terminals, and have kicked off new retail locations. As these good-news stories about the industry arise, members have taken advantage of NBB services to help spread the message of biodiesel’s economic, environmental and national security benefits within their local communities.

“It is really important to use every opportunity we can to educate people on the benefits of biodiesel,” said Jessica Robinson, NBB communications director. “Grand opening events are just one of the great ways to showcase the job-creation and economic benefits of the biodiesel industry to local and state leaders.”

In recent months a number of NBB members hosted events that were well attended by legislators, business leaders, environmental advocates and biodiesel industry representatives.
• NBB member Washakie Renewable Energy LLC hosted an open house event and plant tour celebrating the start of its biodiesel production facility near Plymouth, Utah.
• Renewable Energy Group celebrated the official opening of the REG Albert Lea biodiesel plant in Minnesota.
• Metro Energy opened a new state-of-the-art biodiesel and petroleum storage facility at Enterprise Park (EPCAL), Calverton, Long Island, N.Y.
• AMERIgreen Energy, Inc. of Lancaster, Pa., worked with students and faculty at the Lancaster County Career and Technology Center to unveil a biodiesel chopper designed and built by the school. The chopper, which runs on recycled-cooking-oil biodiesel from the school cafeteria, led an energy independence convoy of elected representatives and officials to a ceremonial signing of The Declaration of American Energy Independence, in August.

“As the trade association to the industry, we are here to help our members,” said Robinson. “The communications team can help in a number of ways. From promoting events, to helping organize, to finding speakers for the big day, we are happy to help members tout their accomplishments.”