Diversifying Biodiesel Sources in Indonesia through the Development of Non-Food Crops and the Utilization of Waste Oils

Abstract

Indonesia's biodiesel sector has long relied on Crude Palm Oil (CPO) as the primary feedstock, but this dependency raises concerns regarding environmental sustainability and economic stability, especially due to deforestation and land-use change (LUC) emissions. This study explores alternative feedstocks for biodiesel production, including non-food oils such as Jatropha curcas, used cooking oil (UCO), and emerging technologies like microalgae. The paper assesses the price, yield, land availability, and environmental impacts of these feedstocks compared to CPO. The results show that UCO offers significant environmental and economic advantages, with low production costs and zero LUC emissions. Jatropha curcas, while still developing, has strong potential for cultivation on marginal lands and can contribute to emission reductions. Microalgae, though promising in the long term, faces technological challenges that hinder its current scalability. This research recommends a diversified feedstock strategy to reduce Indonesia’s reliance on CPO, enhance energy security, and meet sustainability goals. The study calls for regulatory support, infrastructure investments, and long-term research into alternative feedstocks to create a resilient and sustainable biodiesel sector in Indonesia.