In a move that is sure to confound the cross section of vegetarian and vegan environmentalists, Amtrak has begun running its first U.S. biodiesel commuter train. The Heartland Flyer, whose biofuel is derived from beef byproducts, will connect travelers between Oklahoma City and Fort Worth during a one year trial run.
The Guardian reports that the green train’s usage of B20 biofuel reduces hydrocarbon and carbon monoxide emissions by 10 percent, particulates by 15 percent, and sulphates by 20 percent compared to regular diesel. During the 12-month experiment, Amtrak will collect and analyze data on actual emissions and the effects of B20 on the train’s mechanical systems. Read the full story






