How biodiesel could cut greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality in Saudi Arabia

One promising solution to help Saudi Arabia achieve its green agenda is the adoption of biodiesel. (Shutterstock)
Short Url
Updated 17 August 2024
Follow

How biodiesel could cut greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality in Saudi Arabia

  • The Kingdom could look to biodiesel as a sustainable alternative to meet its Vision 2030 and Paris Agreement goals
  • Biodiesel adoption could be a game-changer for reducing carbon emissions and air pollution in the transport sector

RIYADH: Although Saudi Arabia’s economy has long relied on oil and gas, the Kingdom is setting its sights on a greener future, aiming to diversify its energy resources and adopt sustainable practices for future generations.

One promising solution to help Saudi Arabia achieve its green agenda is the adoption of biodiesel — an alternative fuel that could significantly improve air quality and help combat climate change.

“Biodiesel has proven to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 86 percent compared to petroleum diesel, making it a key player in achieving global climate goals,” the US National Renewable Energy Laboratory said in its recent “Biofuels and Climate Change” report.




By converting tallow, used cooking oil, and corn oil into biodiesel, between 79 percent and 86 percent of greenhouse gas reductions can be achieved compared with petroleum diesel. (Shutterstock)

Biodiesel is a renewable, biodegradable and clean-burning fuel derived from vegetable oils such as soybean and algae, animal fats, or recycled cooking oils. It has gained traction in Europe and the US as a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based diesel, offering a viable path to cutting carbon emissions.

According to the European Biodiesel Board, the EU is the world leader in producing and using biodiesel, with nearly 200 plants producing about 13 million tonnes annually.

This shift is driven by biodiesel’s ability to release lower levels of harmful chemicals, including carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, sulfur oxides, and unburned hydrocarbons when combusted, making it a more environmentally friendly option.

“The adoption of biodiesel not only reduces harmful emissions but also enhances energy security by decreasing reliance on imported fossil fuels,” David Woollard, director of the EBB, said in the board’s 2023 annual report. 

In Saudi Arabia, the real estate development company Red Sea Global has taken a pioneering step by adopting low-carbon biofuels for its delivery vehicles. The biofuel used by RSG emits just 0.17 kilograms of carbon dioxide per liter, compared with 2.7 kg per liter from traditional diesel.

This significant reduction in emissions not only benefits the environment but also has a positive effect on public health, because diesel exhaust is linked to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, and many types of cancer.

By adopting biodiesel, Saudi Arabia could set a new standard for green development, playing a crucial role in balancing air pollution and mitigating climate change in the region.

The UN Sustainable Development Goals report on Saudi Arabia’s air pollution interventions highlights the Kingdom’s commitment to stricter air emission standards, improved vehicle inspections, and stronger enforcement of environmental codes.

DID YOUKNOW?

• Biodiesel is a renewable, biodegradable fuel made from vegetable oils, animal fats, or recycled cooking oils

• Compared to traditional diesel, biodiesel releases significantly lower levels of carbon monoxide, sulfur oxides, and unburned hydrocarbons.

• By reducing diesel exhaust emissions, biodiesel helps lower the risk of respiratory diseases, cardiovascular issues and cancer.

• Biodiesel is widely used in Europe and the US, with blends like B20 offering a balance of cost, emissions and engine compatibility.

However, Saudi Arabia’s reliance on energy-intensive industries, such as desalination and petrochemicals, presents challenges to its green development goals.

Trucks and heavy vehicles are significant contributors to diesel emissions, making the widespread adoption of biodiesel critical to reducing air pollution and achieving the Vision 2030 sustainable development targets.

“Biodiesel use in transport can significantly lower particulate matter emissions, improving air quality and public health in urban areas,” according to the International Council on Clean Transportation’s report on “Alternative Fuels for Sustainable Transport.”




For Saudi Arabia, incorporating biodiesel into its energy mix could be a significant step toward meeting its commitments under the Paris Agreement on climate change. (Shutterstock)

Globally, many countries are transitioning from conventional diesel to biodiesel blends to address the growing climate crisis.

In the US, for instance, B20 — a blend of 20 percent biodiesel and 80 percent traditional diesel — has become a popular choice due to its balance of cost, reduced emissions and compatibility with existing engines.

According to the US Department of Energy, B20 can reduce particulate matter emissions and greenhouse gases, as the carbon dioxide released during combustion is offset by the carbon dioxide absorbed by the plants used to produce biodiesel

Opinion

This section contains relevant reference points, placed in (Opinion field)

For Saudi Arabia, incorporating biodiesel into its energy mix could be a significant step toward meeting its commitments under the Paris Agreement on climate change. The Kingdom aspires to reach net-zero emissions by 2060 and reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by generating 50 percent of its electricity from renewable sources.

Incorporating biodiesel into the transportation sector, or even fully replacing traditional diesel, would bring Saudi Arabia closer to these goals and demonstrate its commitment to protecting the environment.

As the Kingdom continues to diversify its energy mix and modernize its industries, the adoption of biodiesel is likely to be a key component of its strategic planning for a sustainable future.
 

 


Saudi Orchestra performance in Tokyo helps ‘bridge cultural boundaries,’ CEO says

Updated 23 November 2024
Follow

Saudi Orchestra performance in Tokyo helps ‘bridge cultural boundaries,’ CEO says

TOKYO: Paul Pacifico, CEO of the Saudi Music Commission, who is in Tokyo with the Saudi National Orchestra, says music “bridges cultural boundaries and has a very important part to play in each of the three main pillars of Vision 2030” as it represents a proud nation, a vibrant society and diversified economy.

Bringing the Saudi National Orchestra to Tokyo, he said, gives people the opportunity “to communicate with our language and it allows everybody to come together and share an experience that allows us to appreciate each other’s cultures and really to be in harmony. And that’s why I think it’s so special that the orchestra is here for the first time.”

The program includes traditional music directed by Saudi Director Reab Ahmed, as well as the Japanese Imperial Court Orchestra “Gagaku.”

“We’re able to show Saudi culture on one of the most prestigious stages in one of the world’s great cultural capitals here at Tokyo Opera City, and we’re doing that with authentic Saudi music, authentic traditional Japanese music with Gagaku,” he said. “But also with that great fusion between the two sets of musicians coming together and doing something really unique and beautiful.”

“The Saudi National Orchestra and choir is really at the vanguard of developing the music landscape in Saudi Arabia as it builds the depth and richness and uniqueness of its beautiful culture, both traditional and modern.”

Pacifico said it was “an honor” to share the stage with the Imperial Orchestra Gagaku performers. “It also shows how our cultures are different and yet similar, the regard for tradition and modernity, the appreciation of music, the sense of formality in public, but warmth and a sense of fun as well in private.”

He hopes that Friday’s performance is not a one-off but becomes the foundation of a rich and long-standing collaboration with “our Japanese friends, the Tokyo College of Music, who we’re collaborating with on this concert.”

“We hope that Saudi artists will start to have opportunities to play on stages here in Tokyo, like the Blue Note and Billboard Live and the Cotton Club, or festivals like Summer Sonic or Fuji Rock. And equally, we’d love to see Japanese artists playing more in Riyadh and all over the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia has a very exciting story to tell.”

This article originally appeared on Arab News Japan


Saudi aid agency KSrelief provides medical and food assistance in Yemen 

Updated 23 November 2024
Follow

Saudi aid agency KSrelief provides medical and food assistance in Yemen 

RIYADH: The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) has helped a Yemeni prosthetics center provide medical services to 536 people in October.
The Prosthetics and Rehabilitation Center in Taiz Governorate provided various medical services Yemeni beneficiaries who have lost limbs, the Saudi Press Agency said.
During the project, 1,757 services were provided including measuring, manufacturing, fitting, delivering and maintaining artificial limbs and prosthetics, in addition to rehabilitation and physiotherapy services.
KSRelief also signed a deal with a Yemeni civil-society organization to provide shelter for the neediest families affected by floods and torrents in Hadhramaut.


KSrelief continues humanitarian outreach in Jordan, Afghanistan and Lebanon

Updated 23 November 2024
Follow

KSrelief continues humanitarian outreach in Jordan, Afghanistan and Lebanon

  • KSrelief provided medical services and distribution of basic needs to individuals

RIYADH: The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) continues its humanitarian activities in Jordan, Afghanistan and Lebanon with the provision of medical services and distribution of basic needs to individuals.

At Jordan’s Zaatri Camp, the Saudi aid agency provided medical services to 2,738 patients during the second week of November. General practitioners treated 657 patients, internists saw 125 patients dealing with diabetes, hypertension and asthma.

The pediatric clinic examined 270 children, while the emergency department attended to 297 patients. Meanwhile, dentists attended to 183 patients

The gynecology clinic served 182 women while ear, nose, and throat doctors clinic treated 57 patients for conditions such as sinusitis, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, and otitis media.

The ophthalmology clinic assisted 51 patients and provided them with medications. The cardiology clinic received 27 patients, and the diagnostic radiology clinic conducted examinations for 25 patients.

Other medical services provided also included laboratory tests, x-rays and vaccinations.

In Afghanistan, 200 shelter kits and 200 tents have been handed out for the benefit of 1,200 individuals as part of a project for returnees from Pakistan to Afghanistan and those affected by flooding.

In Lebanon, KSrelief distributed 530 purchase coupons to orphans and people with disabilities in Akkar region, Beirut, central and western Bekaa and Armoun.

The coupons allow recipients to buy winter clothing of their choice from approved stores.


Saudi GEA chief named most influential personality of last decade at MENA Effie Awards

Updated 22 November 2024
Follow

Saudi GEA chief named most influential personality of last decade at MENA Effie Awards

  • Turki Alalshikh’s contribution to Kingdom’s entertainment sector honored

RIYADH: The head of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority was named the most influential personality of the last decade at the MENA Effie Awards ceremony in Riyadh, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The event, which was held on Thursday as part of this year’s Riyadh Season calendar, honored Turki Alalshikh’s contribution to the Kingdom’s entertainment sector and its emergence as a global hub for world-class events, the SPA added.

Alalshikh thanked Saudi Arabia’s leadership for their support in his acceptance speech, attributing the achievement to the “collaborative efforts of the nation’s people.”

He added that the recognition was a nod to the Kingdom’s growing global stature in the entertainment sector.

The 15th year of the MENA Effie Awards, which were hosted in Saudi Arabia for the first time, celebrated innovation and excellence in the marketing and advertising sectors across the Middle East and North Africa.

This latest accolade followed Alalshikh’s recent distinction as one of the 50 most influential figures in the world of boxing and mixed martial arts, awarded by the British online newspaper The Independent earlier this year.

Under Alalshikh’s leadership, the GEA has transformed the Kingdom’s entertainment sector, with Riyadh Season becoming a flagship event attracting millions of visitors each year.


Gaming community in Saudi Arabia catches them all with Pokemon Go

‘Saudi Arabia is experiencing incredible growth in gaming with more than 67 percent of the population being passionate gamers.’
Updated 22 November 2024
Follow

Gaming community in Saudi Arabia catches them all with Pokemon Go

  • Maan Al-Qurashi, one of the community leaders at Pokemon Go Saudi, told Arab News that the game holds a special place in his heart because he has played different versions for more than 20 years

RIYADH: The official launch of Pokemon Go in Saudi Arabia has brought together a community of gamers who have embraced their inner child while competing and connecting in a world of nostalgic adventure.

Pokemon Go is an augmented reality game that creates an immersive experience of a world where human beings co-exist with colorful creatures with otherworldly superpowers, known as Pokemon.

The game, launched internationally in 2016, uses GPS to track movement and invites players to travel to real-world locations to catch Pokemon and battle with others.

Fans from more than 20 countries around the globe registered at the event. (Supplied)

A local gaming group, “Pokemon Go Saudi,” has created a lively community with members from Riyadh and the Eastern Province who have a shared love of the game.

Maan Al-Qurashi, one of the community leaders at Pokemon Go Saudi, told Arab News that the game holds a special place in his heart because he has played different versions for more than 20 years.

“Pokemon accompanied me in all stages of my life, from childhood to teenager, and still is a part of my daily life after marriage. Hopefully, I will pass down the same passion to my kids.”

HIGHLIGHT

Pokemon Go is an augmented reality game that creates an immersive experience of a world where human beings co-exist with colorful creatures with otherworldly superpowers, known as Pokemon.

Al-Qurashi said Pokemon Go Saudi began with 10 members in 2017, after the international launch of the game.

Today, the community comprises a diverse group of 500 members from all age groups who have made lasting friendships with their Pokemon partners. As a team, they go on adventures, train to improve their skills, and battle in friendly competitions.

‘Saudi Arabia is experiencing incredible growth in gaming with more than 67 percent of the population being passionate gamers.’ (Supplied)

Al-Qurashi said that it is more than a game. It is a community that fosters growth and friendship.

“Multiple in-person activities and relationships have been linked to Pokemon Go. For example, the daily routine is not only going to work and staying with family, it includes playing Pokemon Go even if it’s for a few minutes during the day or an hour or so.”

Last week, more than 5,000 Pokemon Go fans gathered at Boulevard City to celebrate the official launch of the Saudi application. Omar Tellez, vice president at Niantic, said that the event was the largest Pokemon Go event of its kind in the region to date.

Maan AlQurashi, one of the community leaders at Pokemon Go Saudi. (Supplied)

“Seeing the joy of the thousands of attendees, of all ages, has been such a delight. The success of today’s event is a testament to the popularity of Pokemon Go here in the Kingdom. The community has really responded.”

Fans from more than 20 countries around the globe registered at the event.

“It’s been incredible to see them unite to catch some of their favorite Pokemon and enjoy their time together in person. That’s what our game is all about.

Fans from more than 20 countries around the globe registered at the event. (Supplied)

“We have loved seeing their passion and excitement firsthand – whether through cheering on their teams during the PvP battles, or celebrating that iconic button-press moment — or join forces to catch Mewtwo as the legendary Pokemon took over the Boulevard Screens. The atmosphere was truly something special,” Tellez said.

Saudi Arabia is experiencing incredible growth in gaming with more than 67 percent of the population — more than 23.5 million people — being passionate gamers, Tellez said.

“We are excited to welcome many of them into our global trainers community, and we know this event is just the start of our adventure together as we create new experiences and ways for them to connect here in KSA.”

Today, more than 100 million people play Pokemon Go every year in more than 150 countries and regions, making for more than a billion downloads. Trainers have walked more than 8 billion kilometers collectively while playing the game.