Journal of Energy Bioscience 2024, Vol.15, No.4, 243-254 http://bioscipublisher.com/index.php/jeb 244 This study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of palm oil in biodiesel production, covering the entire value chain from cultivation to market. It examines the cultivation practices and yield of oil palm trees, highlighting the factors that influence productivity and sustainability. The study also analyzes the various technologies and processes involved in the extraction of palm oil and its conversion to biodiesel, including transesterification and other innovative methods. Additionally, it evaluates the economic, environmental, and social impacts of palm oil biodiesel production, with a focus on life cycle emissions, energy balance, and market dynamics. The challenges and opportunities associated with the use of palm oil as a biodiesel feedstock are discussed, including the potential for utilizing by-products and waste materials to enhance sustainability. The study provides insights into the future prospects of palm oil biodiesel in the context of global energy transitions and policy frameworks. By addressing these objectives, this study aims to offer a holistic understanding of the role of palm oil in biodiesel production and its potential contribution to a sustainable energy future. 2 Palm Oil Cultivation 2.1 Overview of palm oil plant biology The oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) is a tropical plant known for its high oil yield, making it a valuable crop for biodiesel production. The plant thrives in humid tropical climates with well-distributed rainfall and temperatures ranging from 24 ℃ to 32 ℃. Oil palms are typically grown in monoculture plantations, which can lead to reduced biodiversity compared to the forests they replace (Darras et al., 2019; Gómez et al., 2023). The plant's biology includes a robust root system that helps in nutrient uptake and water absorption, essential for its growth and productivity. 2.2 Major regions of palm oil cultivation Palm oil cultivation is predominantly concentrated in Southeast Asia, particularly in Malaysia and Indonesia, which together account for over 90% of global production (Meijaard et al., 2020; Uning et al., 2020). Other significant regions include Thailand, Nigeria, and parts of Central and South America. In Thailand, for instance, the southern region is most suitable for oil palm cultivation due to its favorable climate and soil conditions (Jaroenkietkajorn and Gheewala, 2021). Nigeria also has a substantial palm oil industry, leveraging its tropical climate to produce biodiesel from palm olein (Ishola et al., 2020) (Figure 1). Figure 1 (a) Washing of Crude Biodiesel, (b) Drying of the Biodiesel, (c) Biodiesel obtained (Adopted from Ishola et al., 2020) 2.3 Agricultural practices and sustainability concerns Effective soil management is crucial for maintaining the productivity of oil palm plantations. Practices such as reduced fertilization and mechanical weed control have been shown to enhance soil quality and biodiversity
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