Strategic alliance aims to grow camelina as a low carbon biofuel crop
Bayer and bp have announced a long-term strategic alliance to grow the oilseed crop camelina under the newgold™ brand. The partnership plans to launch commercial camelina production across North America to meet rising demand for low-carbon fuels.
The alliance brings together bp’s experience in fuel production and refining with Bayer’s strong background in seed technology and its wide farmer network. Together, the companies aim to build a dependable intermediate oilseeds market to support biodiesel, renewable diesel, and sustainable aviation fuel.
“This alliance will help us to connect the value chain necessary to bring camelina to market and provides our farmer customers greater market certainty as they consider camelina on their farm,” said Frank Terhorst, head of strategy and sustainability for Bayer’s Crop Science division.
“We are utilizing our industry leading breeding program to enhance the crop, and its untapped potential globally to help meet the needs of this growing market. We see this as a win for our customers and their farms, as it creates potential new revenue streams, but also a win for the renewable fuels market,” said Terhorst.
Demand for these fuels is expected to grow sharply, with global needs projected to nearly triple by 2040. Camelina is seen as an important solution because it can be grown between main crops or on land that is often underused.
According to Bayer, the partnership gives farmers more confidence to include camelina in their operations. The crop offers potential new income opportunities while supporting cleaner fuel production. bp has stated that working with strong partners helps deliver energy solutions while creating long-term value.
The announcement follows Bayer’s earlier acquisition of camelina-related assets. As part of its expansion plans, Bayer is testing both short- and long-season camelina types. The crop has already been introduced in the Northern Plains of the United States and parts of Western Canada.
Camelina is valued for its low input needs and flexibility. It can be grown in spring or winter and is tolerant to cold and dry conditions. Because it can be planted on fallow land or between crop rotations, it does not compete directly with food production.
Under the newgold™ seed brand, camelina is designed to fit different farm needs. Farmers can grow it between seasons, as part of crop rotations, or on marginal land. This allows producers to join the low-carbon fuel economy while maintaining control over their farm decisions.
Biofuels remain important for reducing emissions in transportation sectors where electrification is difficult, such as aviation, marine, rail, and heavy equipment. Camelina adds another renewable option to support this transition.
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