Fleet Services Bio-Diesel

UMass Fleet Services has used a B20 bio-diesel blend since 2001. It purchases about 44,000 gallons annually (about 9,000 gallons bio-diesel and 35,000 gallons diesel). The B20 blend consists of 20% bio-diesel and 80% regular diesel. Use of B20 can reduce total hydrocarbon content by nearly 20%, carbon monoxide content by 12%, and total particulate matter by up to 12%.

Utilities Bio-Heat Initiative

The campus is currently participating in a bio-heat pilot program funded by the MA Executive Office of Environmental Affairs. The B3 blend (3% bio-diesel and 97% regular diesel) is being used in all small boilers on the UMass campus, including those at the Belchertown Apple Orchard Complex. Reduced emissions and more efficient combustion are anticipated as benefits. The initiative focused on the 2006-2007 heating season and should consume around 20,000 gallons of B3.