Use of biodiesel in non-road mobile machineries for low-carbon construction: Policy review and lifecycle analysis

Abstract

Carbon reduction is nowadays part of the sustainable development initiative worldwide, and promoting the use of biodiesel as a substitute for conventional diesel in non-road mobile machineries (NRMMs) used in the construction sector is a direct and effective way to reduce carbon emissions in this energy-intensive industry from a lifecycle perspective. In addition, the production and use of biodiesel made from waste cooking oil provide a solution to environmental issues and waste management, achieving a circular economy. Nevertheless, biodiesel usage in NRMMs in Hong Kong is largely limited to public works and the current biodiesel promotion and regulation measures are inadequate. This study aims to review and analyse biodiesel policies and promote the use of biodiesel in Hong Kong for low-carbon construction. Incentive and mandatory policies applicable to NRMMs are reviewed and analysed for two stages: biodiesel production and supply, and biodiesel consumption. Recommendations on biodiesel policies for the construction industry in Hong Kong are made accordingly, including expanding biodiesel production through incentives, and encouraging contractors to use biodiesel in private projects. A lifecycle analysis is then conducted to quantify the carbon reduction capability of using biodiesel. It is estimated that a lifecycle reduction of 3.2 × 104 tCO2e, i.e., a 4.5% decrease could be achieved by using B5 waste cooking oil biodiesel instead of diesel in the construction industry of Hong Kong. This study reviews and analyses biodiesel policies clearly and critically, paving the way for the establishment of feasible and effective regulations for promoting biodiesel use for low-carbon construction.