Services
Report Store
Market Insights
Our Blogs
Connect with Us

Enquire Now

Biodegradable Engine Oil Market

Pages: 130 | Base Year: 2023 | Release: April 2025 | Author: Sharmishtha M.

Market Definition

The market involves the production of eco-friendly engine oils made from renewable materials. These oils naturally decompose, minimizing pollution from spills. The report outlines the major factors driving the market, along with key drivers and the competitive landscape shaping the growth trajectory over the forecast period.

Biodegradable Engine Oil Market Overview

The global biodegradable engine oil market size was valued at USD 1106.2 million in 2023, which is estimated to be valued at USD 1144.3 million in 2024 and reach USD 1511.8 million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 4.06% from 2024 to 2031. 

Rising environmental awareness is driving the market, as consumers and industries recognize the harmful effects of petroleum-based oils. This has led to increased demand for sustainable alternatives such as biodegradable engine oils derived from vegetable oils and synthetic esters. 

Major companies operating in the biodegradable engine oil industry are CONDAT, Castrol Limited, Exxon Mobil Corporation, FUCHS, Renewable Lubricants, Inc., Repsol, Shell International B.V., TotalEnergies, Vickers Oils, BIONA JERSÍN s.r.o., RCS Bio Solutions, Chevron Corporation, MOTOREX, Savita, and B3C FUEL SOLUTIONS.

The market is experiencing growth, particularly in sensitive industries such as marine, agriculture, and construction, where oil spills pose significant environmental risks. As these sectors often operate in ecosystems that require high levels of protection, the demand for oils that break down naturally in the environment is increasing. 

Biodegradable engine oils offer a sustainable solution, helping companies comply with environmental regulations while minimizing the impact of oil spills on soil and water.

  • In August 2024, Shell introduced its Shell PANOLIN biodegradable lubricants, designed to reduce environmental impact without compromising performance. These high-performance lubricants help customers meet sustainability goals, providing reliable equipment protection while maintaining optimal efficiency across various industrial applications, including engines.

Biodegradable Engine Oil Market Size & Share, By Revenue, 2024-2031

Key Highlights:

  1. The biodegradable engine oil industry size was recorded at USD 1106.2 million in 2023.
  2. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.06% from 2024 to 2031.
  3. Europe held a market share of 39.49% in 2023, with a valuation of USD 436.9 million.
  4. The vegetable oil-based biodegradable engine oil segment garnered USD 604.7 million in revenue in 2023.
  5. The automotive engines segment is expected to reach USD 926.2 million by 2031.
  6. Asia Pacific is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 4.65% during the forecast period.

Market Driver

Rising Environmental Awareness

Rising environmental awareness is a significant growth driver for the biodegradable engine oil market. Consumers and industries are becoming more conscious of the long-term environmental damage caused by petroleum-based oils, including soil and water contamination. 

As climate change concerns grow and regulations become stricter, industries look for sustainable alternatives. Biodegradable oils made from renewable materials, help reduce environmental impact by breaking down quickly in the event of spills. 

This growing awareness has led to a shift in consumer preferences toward greener products. In response, manufacturers are developing high-performance, biodegradable options to replace traditional oils.

  • In March 2024, Motorex introduced a pioneering biodegradable motor oil, the NEXUS FE ECO SAE 5W/30, designed for commercial vehicles. Made from regenerative raw materials, this fuel-efficient, CO2-friendly oil supports sustainable operation, especially in environmentally sensitive sectors like agriculture, forestry, and construction.

Market Challenge

Consumer Awareness

A key challenge in the biodegradable engine oil market is low consumer awareness and adoption, particularly in regions where traditional oils dominate. Despite environmental benefits, many consumers are  have limited knowledge of biodegradable alternatives. 

Increasing awareness through educational campaigns, partnerships with environmental organizations, and offering clear communication about the oil's performance benefits can help address this issue. Expanding affordability and accessibility may further support broader adoption in markets with growing environmental concerns.

Market Trend

Shift to Plant-Based Lubricants

A significant trend in the market is the shift towards plant-based lubricants. Derived from renewable sources such as vegetable oils and bioesters, these lubricants offer a non-toxic, environmentally responsible alternative to petroleum-based options. 

Advances in formulation have improved their thermal stability, oxidation resistance, and lubricating properties, making them a competitive choice for various industries. 

Consumers and industries are prioritizing sustainability, in turn increasing the demand for plant-based biodegradable lubricants. They are able to offer performance equal to or better than conventional options, without the high costs often associated with eco-friendly products.

  • In October 2023, B3C Fuel Solutions introduced a new family of plant-based, biodegradable lubricants that outperform petroleum-based options. These non-toxic, eco-friendly products offer superior performance while reducing carbon footprint and environmental impact.

Biodegradable Engine Oil Market Report Snapshot

Segmentation

Details

By Type

Synthetic Ester-based Biodegradable Engine Oil, Vegetable Oil-based Biodegradable Engine Oil, Polyalkylene Glycol (PAG)-based Biodegradable Engine Oil, Others

By Application

Automotive Engines, Marine Engines, Industrial Machinery, Aerospace Engines, Agricultural Equipment

By Region

North America: U.S., Canada, Mexico

Europe: France, UK, Spain, Germany, Italy, Russia, Rest of Europe

Asia-Pacific: China, Japan, India, Australia, ASEAN, South Korea, Rest of Asia-Pacific

Middle East & Africa: Turkey, UAE, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Rest of Middle East & Africa

South America: Brazil, Argentina, Rest of South America

Market Segmentation:

  • By Type (Synthetic Ester-based Biodegradable Engine Oil, Vegetable Oil-based Biodegradable Engine Oil, Polyalkylene Glycol (PAG)-based Biodegradable Engine Oil, Others): The vegetable oil-based biodegradable engine oil segment earned USD 604.7 million in 2023 due to its natural origin, high lubrication properties, and biodegradability, making it ideal for industries focused on reducing environmental impact.
  • By Application (Automotive Engines, Marine Engines, Industrial Machinery, Aerospace Engines, Agricultural Equipment): The automotive engines held 59.54% of the market in 2023, due to the rising demand for sustainable and eco-friendly lubricants in passenger vehicles to reduce carbon footprints and meeting stringent emissions regulations.

Biodegradable Engine Oil Market Regional Analysis

Based on region, the global market has been classified into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and Latin America.

Biodegradable Engine Oil Market Size & Share, By Region, 2024-2031

Europe biodegradable engine oil market share stood around 39.49% in 2023 in the global market, with a valuation of USD 436.9 million. Europe is a dominant market for biodegradable engine oils, due to stringent environmental regulations and a strong focus on sustainability. 

European nations, including Germany and France, have established strict standards for automotive products, pushing the demand for eco-friendly lubricants. The region’s commitment to reducing carbon footprints, coupled with innovations in biodegradable oil formulations, reinforces Europe’s position as a global leader in the adoption and production of biodegradable engine oils.

Asia Pacific is poised for significant growth at a robust CAGR of 4.65% over the forecast period. The Asia-Pacific region is experiencing rapid growth in the market due to increasing environmental awareness and rising industrialization. 

Countries like China and India are leading the demand for eco-friendly solutions, driven by government policies aimed at reducing pollution and promoting sustainable practices. This growing shift towards environmentally conscious alternatives is contributing to the surge in biodegradable engine oil adoption in various sectors, including automotive and machinery.

 Regulatory Frameworks

  • In the EU, REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals) regulation improves human health and environmental protection by managing chemical risks. It sets strict safety standards for chemical safety, including biodegradable engine oils.
  • In the US, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates engine oil performance and promotes biodegradable oils in specific applications. It enforces environmental policies and conducts research to safeguard public health and ecosystems.

Competitive Landscape:

Companies are focusing on developing biodegradable engine oils that meet stringent environmental standards while ensuring high performance and equipment longevity. These eco-friendly lubricants are designed to reduce environmental impact without compromising efficiency. 

Rising demand for sustainable solutions in the automotive and industrial sectors is driving innovation. Companies are developing products that comply with strict regulations, supporting environmentally responsible practices.

  • In August 2024, Chevron, introduced its Clarity Bio EliteSyn AW, a biodegradable, premium hydraulic fluid. This product is designed to meet stringent environmental standards while ensuring optimal performance and extended equipment life.

List of Key Companies in Biodegradable Engine Oil Market:

  • CONDAT
  • Castrol Limited
  • Exxon Mobil Corporation
  • FUCHS
  • Renewable Lubricants, Inc.
  • Repsol
  • Shell International B.V.
  • TotalEnergies
  • Vickers Oils
  • BIONA JERSÍN s.r.o.
  • RCS Bio Solutions
  • Chevron Corporation
  • MOTOREX
  • Savita
  • B3C FUEL SOLUTIONS

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the expected CAGR for the biodegradable engine oil market over the forecast period?
How big was the industry in 2023?
What are the major factors driving the market?
Who are the key players in market?
Which is the fastest growing region in the market in the forecasted period?
Which segment is anticipated to hold the largest share of the market in 2031?