By Jamie Martin
America’s farmers are facing mounting financial pressure. Corn and soybean prices have dropped 40–50% from recent highs, while production costs remain stubbornly high. For many, 2025 is the third year of losses, raising concerns of a looming farm crisis.
Experts agree that short-term assistance cannot solve the challenge. Long-term growth depends on new, durable demand markets. Renewable maritime fuels may provide that breakthrough. The International Maritime Organization’s upcoming Net-Zero Framework will require large ships to cut greenhouse gas emissions starting in 2027. This global policy could create massive new demand for biofuels.
Among the most promising are BioLNG and biodiesel. BioLNG, produced from manure, crop residues, and food waste, is compatible with current LNG infrastructure and can even achieve negative emissions. Biodiesel, derived from oilseeds, animal fats, and used cooking oil, can serve as a near drop-in replacement for marine diesel. Together, these fuels could open markets equal to twice Iowa’s soybean crop.
By 2030, global demand for maritime biofuels may grow by 25 million metric tons, one-third of all demand. For U.S. agriculture, this represents a chance to generate $100–200 billion in new revenues by 2050. Leaders stress the need to coordinate USDA, DOE, and EPA programs, expand infrastructure, and establish maritime fuel corridors.
"Biofuels represent more than just cleaner energy. They represent a lifeline for U.S. farmers," said Ben Kruger, senior vice president, Roeslein Renewables. "By leveraging our agricultural waste and renewable resources, we can stabilize rural communities while helping the shipping industry decarbonize."
Photo Credit: vista-mipan
Categories: National