Global Used Cooking Oil Market: A Deep Dive into Trends, Drivers, and Applications
The global used cooking oil (UCO) market is a dynamic and rapidly expanding sector, driven primarily by the global push towards sustainable energy sources and a circular economy. A major trend is the increasing demand for UCO as a feedstock for producing advanced biofuels, particularly biodiesel and Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO). Regulatory frameworks, such as the European Union's Renewable Energy Directive II and California's Low Carbon Fuel Standard, have been pivotal in driving this demand by providing incentives and mandates for waste-based biofuels. This regulatory support has made UCO a highly valuable commodity, enhancing profit margins for producers and solidifying its role in the renewable energy landscape.
The market is also witnessing a significant shift in its source segments. While the HoReCa (Hotels, Restaurants, and Cafes) sector has traditionally dominated the supply of UCO, the household segment is emerging as a fast-growing source, with increasing awareness and organized collection systems.…