India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF)

Thematic Area: Environment

Idea: Producing Biofuels

Introduction: India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF) is a Trust established by the Department of Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. IBEF's primary objective is to promote and create international awareness of the Made in India label in markets overseas and to facilitate dissemination of knowledge of Indian products and services. Towards this objective, IBEF works closely with stakeholders across government and industry

Innovation: The production of biofuel requires methanol, jatropha oil, distilled water, hydrometer, weighing balance, conical flasks, funnels, cylinders, etc. Hence, apart from a processing facility, trade and explosive licences from the local municipal authority, and clearance from the Pollution Control Board is also required.

Impact: Biofuel, however, can work as an alternative to fossil fuels as it is obtained from plant and animal waste. Considered to be safe and environment-friendly, its production is dependent on the availability of jatropha oil or seeds. Hence, choosing a location where it is easily available is imperative.