March 18 Proclaimed Pacific Biodiesel Day

March 18, 2015 has been proclaimed as Pacific Biodiesel Day by both Hawai’i Governor David Ige and Lieutenant Governor Shan Tsutsui. The honorary day perpetuates the honor and legacy of diesel engine inventor Rudolph Diesel and for the efforts and contribution of local company Pacific Biodiesel.

Governor David Ige presents Pacific Biodiesel President Robert King and Director of Operations Jenna Long with a proclamation naming March 18, 2015 Pacific Biodiesel Day. Pacific Biodiesel photo.

In recognizing the occasion, Gov. Ige and State Transportation Director Ford Fuchigami visited the biodiesel refinery in Kea’au on March 17.

During the visit, Gov. Ige emphasized the state’s serious commitment to food security and energy sustainability. He commended Pacific Biodiesel for being a global pioneer in the field of biofuels and for company president Robert King’s vision to position Hawai’i to become an energy independent and self-sustainable state.

Made from recycled waste vegetables, biodiesel is a cleaner-burning, renewable alternative fuel being produced in Hawai’i. It’s a safe source of energy for all diesel engines and has also been registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as a fuel and fuel additive. The fuel can be used in a blended form or used pure. As little as a 20 percent blend can reap significant benefits, something the City & County of Honolulu have been doing for over a decade.

According to the National Biodiesel Board, the 20 percent blend, also known as B20, provides lubrication that is equal in performance as #2 petroleum diesel with the added benefit that it is biodegradable.

“We are committed to convert all of our diesel fuel equipment and vehicles to B20. This fuel is a blend of 20 percent biodiesel and 80 percent petroleum diesel. We support initiatives to buy local and promote the use of clean energy fuels,” Fuchigami said.

Pacific Biodiesel’s Director of Operations, Jenna Long, and Agricultural Program Manager James Twigg-Smith explain to Governor Ige how the crushing mill, located on the lot adjacent to the refinery, fits into the Company’s sustainability model. Pacific Biodiesel photo.

Pacific Biodiesel opened the first retail biodiesel pump in America and built a reputation as a leading pioneer in the rapidly expanding biodiesel industry.

The company was founded in 1995, has since grown to over 70 employees throughout the state, and has won state, national, and international awards for innovation in the industry. Creating a truly sustainable, community-based biodiesel production facility that maximizes the economic and environmental benefits and minimizes consumption is the vision the company follows as it leads the industry.