School Biofuel Creation
Start a campaign to get your school cafeteria to divert its used fats, oils and grease to make biodiesel.
Did you know that certain waste from your school cafeteria, including fats, oils, and grease, can be used to make biodiesel, which is a renewable fuel source for diesel engines. Contact a local biodiesel club or manufacturer and find out whether they accept used oil. If there's one nearby they might even pick up or provide storage barrels. Schools can also partner with local businesses and other schools to maximize collection efforts.
How do I get started?
Do some research on biodiesel, and what substances can be converted to create this type of fuel. Here are some interesting links:
Find out if there’s anyone in your area that is either using biodiesel vehicles or working on innovative designs using biodiesel
Partner with an engaged science teacher at your school
Find out what kind of biodiesel waste is generated by your cafeteria, and how it’s being disposed
Read our PDF for more useful tips
How long will this take? An estimated minimum of 15-20 hours, but you can really expand this interesting project in a lot of directions.
How do I expand this narrative arc? Think alternative fuels (install electric car charging stations in your community), awareness (a media campaign about the environmental costs of driving) or science fair projects (create your own biodiesel fueled engine). If you want to continue to transform your school, consider the Composting Cafeteria.
HOT TIP: This is an outstanding project for a teen that is interested in the intersection of science and sustainability.