Rural America Faces Mounting Farm Crisis -- Roeslein Renewables Says Global Maritime Shift Could Unlock $200 Billion in New Agricultural Revenues
International Maritime Organization's Net-Zero Framework May Offer Long-Term Solution for U.S. Farmers Through Biofuel Demand
ST. LOUIS, Sept. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Rural America is under mounting financial pressure as commodity prices for corn and soybeans have fallen 40-50% from recent highs, while production costs remain elevated. A recent National Corn Growers Association survey shows that nearly half of U.S. farmers believe the nation is on the brink of a farm crisis.1 For many, 2025 marks the third consecutive year of negative profitability, threatening both food security and the stability of local economies.
Industry leaders stress that short-term fixes will not be enough. Instead, new and durable demand markets are required to restore profitability for America's farmers. A potential breakthrough may come this October, when the International Maritime Organization (IMO) is expected to finalize its Net-Zero Framework, requiring large ocean-going vessels to cut greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions beginning in 2027.2
This policy will accelerate demand for biofuels; renewable fuels made from plant material, animal waste, and agricultural residues.3 By 2030, biofuel demand for maritime use could grow by up to 25 million metric tons; one-third of global demand.4
"Biofuels represent more than just cleaner energy. They represent a lifeline for U.S. farmers," said Ben Kruger, senior vice president, Roeslein Renewables. "By leveraging our agricultural waste and renewable resources, we can stabilize rural communities while helping the shipping industry decarbonize."
Among the most promising fuels are:
-
BioLNG: Produced from manure, crop residues, and food waste, BioLNG is compatible with existing LNG infrastructure and can even achieve negative lifecycle emissions. With over 1 billion tons of agricultural waste generated annually, the U.S. is uniquely positioned to lead in BioLNG production.5
- Biodiesel: Derived from animal fats, oilseeds, and used cooking oil, biodiesel offers a near drop-in replacement for marine diesel with minimal retrofitting. Increased demand could equal up to twice the size of Iowa's annual soybean crop, generating new markets for farmers across multiple feedstocks.
Together, BioLNG and biodiesel could help U.S. agriculture supply flexible, scalable, and sustainable fuel solutions for maritime shipping. Projections show these markets could generate $100-200 billion in new farm revenues by 2050, reducing dependence on ad hoc government assistance and strengthening rural economies.
To seize this opportunity, U.S. leadership will be critical. Key actions include:
- Coordinating USDA, DOE, EPA, and Treasury programs to support renewable maritime fuels.
- Fast-tracking renewable fuel production and blending infrastructure.
- Streamlining permitting and credit verification for small and mid-sized farms.
- Establishing maritime fuel corridors linking inland feedstock to coastal ports.
"The IMO will reward early movers," Bryan Sievers, director of government relations, Roeslein Renewables, emphasized. "The U.S. must act now to ensure farmers are not left behind. As the world's ships sail toward net-zero, it's time for American agriculture to chart its own course; powered by innovation, infrastructure, and resources we can no longer afford to waste."
To learn more about Roeslein Renewables, please visit https://roeslein.com/renewables/.
About Roeslein Renewables
Roeslein Renewables (RR) is a leader in alternative energy and conservation solutions, dedicated to transforming waste into valuable resources while fostering sustainable development in rural and agricultural communities. At Roeslein, we believe our innovative capabilities can generate the kind of renewable natural gas that diminishes greenhouse gases, generates renewable fuels, and creates a more balanced and beneficial future for all life on earth. Combining our team of curious, confident experts with cutting-edge energy technology, our renewable energy products and initiatives can help revitalize economic growth, regenerate agriculture, restore nature, and return hope to the next generation.
Contact:
Adam Voight
Manager, Global Marketing
[email protected]
1 Once-in-a-generation economic crisis in rural America means many farmers could face last year | Fortune. (September 20, 2025).
2 The IMO Net-Zero Framework - FAQs. (2025).
3 Biofuel Basics | Department of Energy. (2025).
4 Maritime Forecast to 2050 by DNV (2025).
5 Food loss and waste account for 8-10% of annual global greenhouse gas emissions; cost USD 1 trillion annually | UNFCCC. (2024).
SOURCE Roeslein Renewables
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