Biofuels - opportunities and challenges

Development of alternative energy sources, including biodiesel, leads to growth of threats for the economy end environment issues all over the world. Manny research and effort was done during last years to introduce first and second generation biofuels to the market. Besides the first running Diesel engine was supplied by biofuel on this field still is lot to do. The issue of alternative fuels has gained additional importance because of much environmental, financial and political matter. The paper describes the legacy and achievements of the research work which was carried out in Poland, presents directions of biofuels usage. Presents development of legislation and standards are affecting producing and usage alternative energy sources in Poland and Europe as well as other countries all over the World. Renewable energy sources, minimal content of biofuel in fuels acc. to EU directive, comparison of properties of alternative fuels, classification of biofuels, simplified systems block diagram of the algae do biodiesel process, development of alternative fuels technologies, European norms in use of bio-fuels and bio-components, biofuel market in Poland, renewable fuels other than biofuels are presented in the paper