USDA has published its final rule to implement a program of preferred procurement of biobased products by federal agencies.

This final rule establishes provisions for the Federal Biobased Products Preferred Procurement Program, which requires all federal agencies to preferentially purchase biobased products that have been designated by USDA as eligible under this program.

“This rule promotes energy independence and the use of environmentally friendly renewable fuels like biodiesel made from soybeans,” says American Soybean Association First Vice President Bob Metz.

The new rule establishes preferred procurement items such as biobased greases, biodiesel and ethanol when used as additives, hydraulic fluids and biobased fertilizers.