Clean Green Bio-diesel

Where does it come from?

EcoMatters' bio-diesel is derived from 100% used vegetable cooking oil that has been collected from around the upper North Island. As it is made from used cooking oil there are no issues with it being in conflict with food production.

How is it made?

Through a process called transesterification, oils and fats are reacted with methanol and a catalyst to produce methyl esters (Bio-diesel). The plant where it is made is powered by generators run on bio-diesel and there is no water discharge, meaning it is a ‘dry facility’. Both air and water pollution are non-issues.

Why is it good for the planet?

Our bio-diesel is good for the planet as it directly offsets fossil fuel based diesel at a 1:1 ratio. Every litre of standard diesel produces 2.68 kilograms of CO², so every 373 litres equals a tonne of CO².

Yes, bio-diesel produces emissions as it is still releasing CO², but because it is burning CO² that is in the current carbon cycle which has been absorbed as plants grew, it is carbon neutral. It’s also a waste product. Fossil fuels on the other hand have been locked in the ground for millions of years and their burning is a direct addition to carbon cycle and atmosphere. Climate change is the biggest issue of our time and using our bio-diesel is one way to help reduce your emissions.

Bio-diesel is also good for the health of our communities. It burns cleanly and produces far less particulates than standard diesel. Standard diesel in New Zealand is comparatively high in sulphur so using bio-diesel improves the quality of air in our cities.  

Is it good for my car?

Our bio-diesel is superior to fossil fuel diesel. It burns cleaner, more completely, and is better for your engine as it improves engine lubrication. There are a couple of points to note:

• If your car is older (pre 1990’s) it may have a fuel system containing rubber seals and may not be compatible with bio-diesel. Check with your vehicle manufacturer to see what kind of seals your vehicle has. Teflon or Viton seals are compatible, but rubber seals will disolve over time with biodiesel use.

• Because bio-diesel burns so cleanly and efficiently, it may flush old impurities from standard oil out of the fuel system into your fuel filter. It is recommended you change your fuel filter after a few fill-ups of bio-diesel. This is an inexpensive process and once done your car will run better than ever!

What about storage?

Because bio-diesel is not classed as a hazardous substance there are no legal issues with storing it. Of course, care should be taken so the fuel does not enter waterways as any type of oil will affect aquatic life.  

How do I get it?

Filling up on our bio-diesel is easy. Once you've completed a  registration form, you can simply pull up to the Sustainable Living Centre and one of our friendly staff will attend to your every need. Our electric pump is actually faster than standard station pumps and you also have the option to fill up containers to take away.

So if you want to make a difference and drive around on clean green bio-diesel come in and see for yourself.