Dani Charles, Veriflux; Rodrigo Otero Munoz, AmSpec Group; Hong Jin, AmSpec Group; Dan Lieberman, NuFarm
The 2026 Sustainability Workshop brought nearly 100 industry leaders, policymakers, and researchers to Kansas City to discuss the evolving landscape of clean fuels. The Clean Fuels Alliance Foundation was proud to co-sponsor the workshop, which served as a platform to strengthen collaboration across sectors committed to advancing sustainability.
Over the course of the workshop, participants examined the policies and systems influencing markets for biodiesel, renewable diesel, and sustainable aviation fuel. Discussions covered updates on federal and state programs, emerging corporate sustainability frameworks, and the alignment of policy, markets, and corporate action to drive meaningful decarbonization.
Kurt Kovarik – Vice President, Federal Affairs, Clean Fuels
Sessions focused on the evolving policy landscape and its impact on clean fuel markets. Attendees explored how coordinated policy efforts can enhance economic value, reduce emissions, and improve energy security. The dialogue emphasized the importance of aligning regulatory frameworks with market mechanisms to accelerate adoption and innovation.
Industry leaders shared insights on the growing role of clean fuels in achieving climate goals. Conversations around book-and-claim systems, environmental value, and additionality highlighted the need for credible, scalable mechanisms to support market growth and ensure transparency in environmental claims.
Foundation Director, Chelsey Robinson, Bayer; Nick Pryor, CPKC; Brittany Brama, CH Robinson; Sean Newsum, Airlines for America; Pete Probst, Indigenous Energy
A major focus of the workshop was implementation, particularly environmental certification, traceability, and supply chain integrity. Participants discussed strategies to strengthen verification systems and ensure sustainability throughout the production process. Sessions on conservation agriculture underscored the vital role of farmers and feedstock producers in achieving sustainable outcomes.
Robust dialogue on land use change risk revealed both the complexity of the issue and the importance of collaborative, practical solutions. Experts shared approaches to mitigate risk while maintaining productivity and environmental stewardship, reinforcing the need for continued research and cross-sector cooperation.
Tom Verry, Executive Director Clean Fuels Foundation; Janice Shiu-2026 Beth Calabotta grant winner; Veronica Bradley, Clean Fuels
The Clean Fuels Alliance Foundation recognized the 2026 Beth Calabotta Sustainability Education Grant winner, Janice Shiu, for her research applying statistical and AI methods to improve the reliability and resilience of feedstocks for biomass-based diesel. Her work exemplifies the innovative spirit driving the clean fuels industry forward.
The Clean Fuels Alliance Foundation looks forward to continuing this important work and building on the momentum generated in Kansas City. Save the date for next year’s Sustainability Workshop, scheduled for April 26–28, 2027.
View the 2026 agenda here.
Thank you for your commitment to the 2026 Sustainability Workshop and sponsorship: Iowa Biodiesel, Iowa Soybean Association, Clean Fuels Alliance Foundation, Bunge Chevron Ag Renewables, Bayer, John Deere, Growth Energy, Seaboard Energy, National Oil Seed Processors Association, Montana Renewables, AGP
