Bayer's smart move to lead in biofuels
Bayer recently acquired camelina germplasm, intellectual property, and materials from Canada-based Smart Earth Camelina Corp.
This acquisition reinforces Bayer’s commitment to expanding its leadership in biomass-based feedstock markets and supports its goal of decarbonizing the transportation sector.
The growing demand for renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is expected to increase from 14 billion to 40 billion gallons by 2040, and Bayer is investing in intermediate oilseed crops like camelina to meet this demand.
Camelina is a promising intermediate oilseed crop known for its low-carbon intensity, making it an excellent candidate for renewable fuels. It is versatile, able to grow in both spring and winter. Bayer plans to use its expertise in oilseeds to further develop this crop.
“We are committed to supporting farmers’ ability to deliver on growing demand for low-carbon biomass-based feedstocks, through investments and development of new intermediate oilseed crops like camelina and advancing sustainable cropping systems,” said Frank Terhorst, Head of Strategy & Sustainability at Bayer’s Crop Science Division. “Bayer is going to continue to lead the way with alternative biomass-based feedstocks and regenerative agricultural solutions.”
Biofuels are essential for decarbonizing the transportation industry, especially since electrification is not viable for all sectors like aviation or shipping. Produced from renewable materials like corn, soy, and camelina, biofuels offer lower carbon intensity than fossil fuels and can substantially reduce greenhouse gas emissions. They also provide farmers with new income opportunities through biomass-based feedstocks.
“We are excited about the acquisition of camelina germplasm from Smart Earth Camelina Corp. which enables us to offer farmers a profitable low-carbon intermediate crop option,” said Jennifer Ozimkiewicz, Head of Crop Strategy Soy & Biofuels at Bayer’s Crop Science Division.
“Camelina is a short season and drought tolerant crop, offering growers an alternative low-input crop for marginal land or to be grown in-between crops.”
Smart Earth Camelina Corp. has been a leader in camelina development for over 20 years. Jack Grushcow, the company's CEO, believes that Bayer is well-positioned to scale camelina production and make significant strides in sustainable agriculture and global CO2 reduction.
Bayer’s acquisition is set to drive significant progress in the renewable fuel industry, offering farmers a profitable and sustainable crop alternative in 2025.