An ancient tree native to India, the pongamia tree, is now flourishing in groves in Florida where citrus trees once dominated, offering potential for renewable energy production. With sections of Florida’s citrus industry succumbing to diseases like greening and citrus canker over the last twenty years, some farmers are turning to the resilient pongamia tree. Unlike citrus trees, pongamia trees require minimal attention, thriving in various weather conditions without the need for pesticides or fertilizers. The beans from the pongamia tree can be harvested efficiently using machines.
Terviva, a San Francisco company founded by Naveen Sikka, identified the potential of pongamia trees and developed a process to remove biopesticides from the beans, making them suitable for food production. Ron Edwards, chairman of Terviva’s board, highlights the versatility of pongamia, with its beans used to produce culinary oil, protein, and biofuel with a low carbon footprint. The trees also support biodiversity by attracting bees and other pollinators.
Florida’s climate is particularly suitable for pongamia growth, aligning well with the significant demand for pongamia-derived products like biofuel, feed, and food ingredients. The tree’s resilience to disease and adverse weather contrasts sharply with the challenges faced by citrus farmers in recent years. Some growers, like John Olson, have shifted from citrus to pongamia cultivation due to the declining citrus industry caused by diseases like greening.
Terviva’s partnership with Mitsubishi Corporation aims to expand the production of biofuel feedstock for various sustainable fuel types. The company is also exploring food products derived from pongamia, such as graham crackers, protein bars, flour, and culinary oil. Pongamia presents a sustainable alternative to traditional protein sources like soybean and yellow pea, offering a viable option for plant-based diets. The ongoing research and development of pongamia products promise a diverse range of applications in the food and biofuel industries, with potential benefits for both farmers and consumers.
