Table Talk

Researchers in the US have discovered a way of turning food waste into a type of paraffin that can be used in jet engines. Now, the concept of bio fuels is not new, but normally biofuels have to come from ‘virgin’ vegetables that are grown especially for fuel. This alternative method is able to turn food waste, animal manure and waste water into a competitive, cleaner jet fuel. Could this solve two issues at once? Simultaneously reducing food waste and creating a cleaner jet fuel? Joining the Table Talk Podcast this week is Derek Vardon, Research Scientist and Project Team Leader, NREL to explain their research, how it will help, and how the first flights will be taking the air with Southwest Airlines in the US in 2023. About our panel Derek Vardon, Research Scientist and Project Team Leader, NREL Derek Vardon is a Research Scientist and Project Team Leader working at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL, USA) to decarbonize aviation and heavy-duty ground transportation with low-cost, low-net c