Biodiesel is a renewable, safe, nontoxic and biodegradable substitute for petroleum diesel, and is made from organic fats and oils such as virgin and recycled vegetable oil and animal tallow. Even in blends as low as 20% biodiesel to 80% petroleum (known as B20), biodiesel can substantially reduce the emission levels and toxicity of diesel exhaust. Biodiesel is designated under federal law as an "alternative fuel", and is registered with the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as a fuel and fuel additive. It can be used in any diesel engine without the need for mechanical alterations and is compatible with the existing petroleum distribution infrastructure. The US Department of Energy (DOE) has recognized biodiesel as the fastest growing alternative fuel in the country. Recent projections anticipate annual market growth from 225 million gallons in 2006 to 2 billion gallons by 2015. The DOE's National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), EPA and Department of Transportation (DOT) have all embraced biodiesel as a means of reducing diesel engine emissions, lowering our dependence on imported petroleum fuel, and boosting the agricultural sector for our country. Record high petroleum prices, the new "clean diesel" emissions standards and federal tax incentives have combined to create an attractive opportunity for biodiesel. With EPACT mandated fleets, prices at parity with petroleum diesel, a burgeoning consumer market and our society’s continued reliance on diesel technology and infrastructure, biodiesel offers a secure and compelling energy option.