SAN FRANCISCO - As founder and a director of the Thomas Jefferson Agricultural Institute, Dr. Rob Myers is well aware of Jefferson's historic commitment to exploring new frontiers as well as agricultural progress. With an eye on continuing advancements in biodiesel that would have appealed to Jefferson's interests, Myers announced today the "Scientists for Biodiesel" declaration at the opening session of the National Biodiesel Conference and Expo in San Francisco.

Donald Danforth Plant Science Center President Roger Beachy and Myers are co-chairs of the "Scientists for Biodiesel" campaign and are inviting their peers from around the world to add their support by cosigning the declaration.

"Scientists sometimes have differences of opinion, but this declaration is intended to show the broad consensus among scientists about the benefits of biodiesel," Myers said. "Our goal is to increase awareness and information sharing about the depth and breadth of the scientific research behind biodiesel that contributes to its sustainability."

The declaration also calls for more investment into the scientific needs associated with this vital bioenergy source. "We applaud these scientists for their exciting work and dedication to enhancing biodiesel's ability meet the food, feed, fiber and energy needs of the future," said National Biodiesel Board Chairman Ed Hegland. "Biodiesel already comes from a variety of feedstocks that can meet today's needs. These scientists are part of the dynamic team that is helping blaze trails for further progress through greater productivity of existing feedstocks and new scientific discoveries."

By visiting biodiesel sustainability scientists can share information about their work and sign the declaration which says in part: "Biodiesel from a variety of feedstocks can meet contemporary needs for environmental stewardship, economic prosperity, and quality of life without compromising the ability of future generations to meet these needs for themselves."

The NBB is the national trade association of the biodiesel industry and is the coordinating body for biodiesel research and development in the United States.