Biodiesel Keeps Great Smoky Mountains National Park Clean

Biodiesel is helping improve the air quality in the US' Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee. This is part of their goal to reduce their environmental footprint.

In 2016, the park used 43,085 gallons of biodiesel (B20), which resulted in a 15% reduction in carbon dioxide, a 12% reduction in carbon monoxide, a 20% reduction in both hydrocarbon and sulphur dioxide, and a 12% reduction in particulate matter, according to the NBB's Emissions Calculator. The park first started using biodiesel blends to power vehicles and equipment in 2003, and the fuel has been used widely around the park since 2006. The Great Smoky Mountains' biodiesel is made from used fryer grease and soybean oil.

The park has constantly strived to incorporate technologies that will result in cleaner air. This includes alternative fuels, electric vehicles and charging stations, and greener building construction. Bioheat is also used to heat the park's headquarters.