Conference

As Africa seeks to diversify its renewable energy mix and reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels, biodiesel is increasingly emerging as a practical circular-economy solution capable of transforming problematic waste streams into locally produced transport and industrial fuels. This session will explore the growing biodiesel landscape within Southern Africa, examining how waste oils, organic residues and other feedstocks are being converted into cleaner-burning renewable fuels while simultaneously addressing waste management, emissions reduction and energy security challenges. The discussion will also examine the evolving role of biodiesel within industrial decarbonisation, transport applications and localised energy resilience strategies.

Drawing on practical project experience and operational expertise, contributors including Kulu Eco-Services, Thauma Energy Projects, MT Biofuels, Zen Oil and BLEG GreenEnergy will share insights into feedstock sourcing, used cooking oil recovery, biodiesel production systems, fuel quality standards and market deployment within African operating conditions. The session will also explore how biodiesel production pathways can evolve beyond fuel alone towards the wider valorisation of bio-based molecules and co-products, including opportunities linked to biochemicals, industrial inputs and higher-value circular bioeconomy applications. Delegates can expect to gain a clearer understanding of both the opportunities and practical challenges associated with scaling biodiesel production in Africa, including feedstock logistics, regulatory frameworks, quality assurance, decentralised production models and the wider role biodiesel and associated bio-refining pathways could play within Africa’s emerging circular bioeconomy.