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The Soy Transportation Coalition (STC) is collaborating with trucking companies to ensure sustainable operations with the introduction of soy-based Gear Head Fifth Wheel Lubricant Pads.
Mike Steenhoek, the Executive Director of the STC, shared that these pads are being provided as free samples to trucking companies.
"Soybean oil is an effective alternative to petroleum-based products, especially in applications like fuel and lubricants," said Steenhoek. "The grease on the fifth wheel eventually falls off, and since it's over 80 percent soy-derived, it benefits the environment."
These 3-inch-by-3-inch pads, comparable in size to a square hockey puck, are listed on the USDA’s Certified Biobased Product program. Trucking firms have responded positively to the pads, appreciating their ease of use, cleanliness, affordability, and the added marketing benefit for soybean farmers, said STC.
Steenhoek highlighted the South Dakota Soybean Research and Promotion Council for recognizing the importance of modest innovations.
“All these companies, large or small, have sustainability goals,” said Steenhoek, referring to over-the-road freight haulers. “They need to be able to demonstrate that ‘we’re examining every aspect of our business to try to show that we’re being sustainable.’”
"Soybean farmers’ organizations, like the South Dakota Soybean Research and Promotion Council, understand the need for new marketing opportunities."
The potential market for fifth-wheel lubricant pads in the US is significant, with a 60-million-pound market for grease due to the 3-million semis operating. The penetration of soy-based grease in this market is uncertain, but it presents a promising opportunity for soybean farmers.
The STC's initiative represents a step towards more sustainable trucking, benefiting both the environment and the agricultural community. See www.soytransportation.org for more information.
