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Abstract
Biodiesel growth from non-food feedstock is gaining attention around the world. Great emphasis is being given to the production of biodiesel in view of its enormous economic, social, and environmental benefits. Biodiesel is a fast-developing alternative fuel in many developed and developing countries of the world. The biodiesel production from vegetable oils during 2004–2005 was estimated to be 2.36 million tonnes globally. Of this, EU countries accounted for about 82% and the USA about 6%. Global bio-diesel production is set to reach some 24 billion liters by 2017. Shortage of edible oil for human consumption in developing countries does not favor its use for biodiesel production. Hence, in India, the focus on tree borne oilseeds as the source of feedstock for biodiesel production has highlighted the role of Pongamia pinnata (L.). The tree is valued for shade, ornamental value, seed oil, fodder, and green manure. In recent times, the interest in this tree is mainly focused on the use of its seed oil as biodiesel, which is environmentally safe, nontoxic, and biodegradable.