Value chain analysis of Biodiesel production from animal fat: A case of Botswana

Abstract

Botswana as a developing country, is currently investing in biodiesel production, however, no data on biodiesel value chain characterisation is available to establish viability and sustainability of biodiesel production. This study characterised the value chain of animal fat biodiesel in respect of feedstock supply, production, and end use. The purpose of the study was to assess potential of animal fat feedstock to sustain envisaged biodiesel industry in Botswana. Methods used in the study include questionnaire surveys and interviews. Key findings of the study indicate that animal fat-based biodiesel value chain is unstructured, stakeholders are disintegrated and unregulated, and the country produces enough fat to yield tallow potential to produce 205,345 litres of biodiesel per month. The findings indicate the need for regulating and promoting animal fat-based biodiesel value chain with policies and establishment of entities to integrate value chain stakeholders as well as exploring all opportunities within the value chain.