ISAT/Geog Study Abroad In Malta 2006
2006 Field Study Projects
TITLE
An Implementation of a Household Waste Cooking Oil Collection System in Malta
ABSTRACT
Biodiesel is an alternative fuel that is made from vegetable oils or animal fats and is refined so it can be used in a diesel engine with little to no conversions. There are several benefits to using biodiesel. Biodiesel comes from renewable resources, it lessens demands on petroleum, and it is better for the environment. Edible Oils is a company in Malta that produces biodiesel. Their inputs are rendered animal fats, waste vegetable oil and virgin oils. Waste vegetable oil provides a great potential for the source of this fuel for Malta. Edible Oils attempted a pilot program in 2002 to collect used oil from residents but the results were poor. Our goal is to develop a strategy that will encourage more participation in the collection program. This plan will educate the people of Malta about biodiesel and why recycling used cooking oil is important and beneficial. If more people participate, it could lower the cost of biodiesel, making it even more competitive with petroleum-based diesel fuel. It will also decrease the need to import oil, thus helping to lower the cost.
TEAM
Austin Bennett, ISAT '08
Billy Broas, ISAT '07
Kevin Ray, ISAT '07
Sara Rodell, Economics, University of Virginia, '08
Sarah Shulman, ISAT '07
SPONSORS/ADVISORS
Mr. Philip Psaila, Commercial Manager, Edible Oil Refinery Co. Ltd.
Dr. Amy Townsend, Adjunct Assistant Professor, ISAT, JMU; President, Sustainable Development International Corporation
Dr. C.J. Brodrick, Assistant Professor, ISAT, JMU
FINAL PRESENTATION (PDF)
