Biodiesel is a fuel derived from biomass (made from plant materials) that can be used without modification in vehicles with diesel engines. Biodiesel is considered a ‘green’ fuel or biofuel because it is renewable and produces less sulphur emissions than conventional diesel. However, this solution is not without cost. Vast swathes of topical forest have been replaced by palm oil plantations. At present most of the palm oil produced is used in foodstuffs and cosmetics but has potential for use as a biofuel too. Palm oil tree monocultures contain a fraction of the wildlife found in the rich biodiversity of habitats such as the forests of Borneo. Conservationists are seriously concerned at the environmental and ecological consequences of further expansion of these crops because of the effects on biodiversity and landscapes.

This unit reflects these concerns but also explores the economic benefits that may be brought to countries able to grow palm oil trees.