Much has been talked about the use of edible oil for the production of bio-diesel is a major concern for the price of cooking oil to shoot up in the last few years. Although, this article does not support Bush Administration plans for alternative energy to take cue from the bio-fuels, at the cost of under- developed and developing nation, the advantages and disadantages are listed herein before , proceeding further.

Palm oil producer Malaysia is now refocusing it's attention to the production of palm oil based biodiesel to cater to the huge demand from European countries. Indonesia on the other hand is raising the export tax to 20 . More encouragement is coming from the policymakers themselves to build of more biodiesel plants. However, the higher prices of fuel and increasing demand for alternative sources of energy drives the crude palm oil prices higher.

Strong demand is expected for biodiesel from Europe as well as Colombia, India, South Korea and Turkey as more countries seek to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels. Out of the 4.1 million tons produced, Europe consumed 57 of the entire Europe's biodiesel share. Mercedes Benze is testing for the last 6 years with palm oil based bio-diesel and has came out with flying colors.

Advantages

Non-toxic & High cetane number
High flash point & High solvency
Oxygenated fuel – cleaner burning
High lubricity & Low sulfur
Free of Sulphur and other aromatic compounds
Less carbon deposits & reduce green house gas emissions
Renewable & Biodegradable
Waste vegetable oil can be renewed to Biodiesel.
Can be mixed with diesel in any proportion and better engine lubrication
1.
US National Biodiesel Board's evaluation of biodiesel emissions findings, as given
- The overall ozone (smog) forming potential is 50), carbon monoxide (-50).
- Substantial reductions of cancer-causing PAH (-80).

Disadvantages

At the Cost of Edible Oil Supply / Food production
Higher pour point and Increased NOx emissions
Degradation of rubber and non-compatible with certain metals
Less efficient