Coconut biodiesel offers a cheaper alternative to fuel imports and scientists in the Pacific country are looking at how to use it more widely
Decades ago, the fruit was a lucrative export but over the years it has become less prized on international markets. Now, the small island off the north coast of the country, is putting coconuts to another use.
“ is used on Karkar in government vehicles, ambulances, police cars, motor vehicles, ships, generators and our own business,” says Middleton. Middleton says expanding the local industry would further reduce dependence on costly imports of fuels, but securing backing to grow the operation has proved challenging.
“It’s just diesel but rather than using crude oil, we use coconut oil in the process of making it,” says Middleton, adding that it can be used alone or blended with traditional fuels – without the need to modify engines. Middleton says with more funding the project could see enough fuel produced to supply the rest of Madang province – home to about 500,000 people. Kulili has approached the Madang government about expanding the project, and says there has been some interest. The Madang authorities didn’t respond to requests for comment.Photograph: Kulili Estates
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