As part of the March 18 celebration of National Biodiesel Day, the Illinois Soybean Association’s B20 Club is proud to announce its diamond-level sponsorship of the Chicago Area Clean Cities coalition. Through its support of the CACC, the B20 Club is helping promote the use of biodiesel for its environmental, economic and sustainable benefits.

The B20 Club is a checkoff-funded program jointly sponsored by ISA and the American Lung Association in Illinois. It recognizes Illinois-based fleets running on biodiesel blends of 20 percent.

“By promoting biodiesel’s benefits through CACC, we can play a greater role in reducing our state’s carbon footprint and supporting local economies,” said Gary Berg, soybean farmer from St. Elmo, Illinois, and ISA director. “Increased biodiesel consumption supports Illinois farmers by creating more demand for soybean oil, which ultimately builds a more sustainable future for Illinois.”

Soybean oil, a feedstock used in nearly 50 percent of biodiesel production, helps reduce U.S. dependence on imported petroleum. B20 Club members also choose biodiesel for its fuel savings and emissions reduction. The club’s annual reduction in carbon dioxide emissions is the equivalent of planting 10,638 trees. More information is available at www.B20Club.org.    

“We are grateful for the support of the B20 Club and Illinois Soybean Association,” said John Walton, vice chairman of Chicago Area Clean Cities. “Together, we can create increased awareness about biodiesel’s ease of use and environmental benefits. Last year our coalition’s 150 members had the same effect as removing 53,000 passenger cars from the road. This partnership is likely to increase this positive impact.”