What are the differences between first-, second-, and third-generation biodiesel?

There are three generations of biodiesel, distinguished by the origin of the raw materials used and the associated processing methods. All aim to support the environmental transition and further reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

First-generation biodiesel, industrialized in the early 2000s, is mainly produced from rapeseed oil, sunflower oil, or soybean oil.

Currently under development, second-generation biodiesel uses non-food parts of plants as well as agricultural residues to produce biodiesel: forest residues, straw, corn stalks, etc.

As for third-generation biodiesel, it is still at the research stage. It aims to produce biodiesel from microorganisms (bacteria, microalgae, etc.).