Tony Piccolo is an aquatic biofuels specialist and one of the first to support developing countries address their energy needs through the use of fish waste and algae. Having coined the term aquatic biofuels, his pioneering research led to the first paper on the subject which has been published in Biofuels International, as well as several online publications; Food Security Network (FSN), the Global Bio Energy Partnership (GBEP), and the GLOBEFISH website of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
With over 20 years experience in international development, Tony has worked in many programs within the United Nations – from the Sustainable Development department where his passion for renewable energy dawned, to the Fisheries department where his compelling presentations have generated great excitement about the promising new area of biofuels. Through his initiation of an United Nations working group, he is further garnering support to explore the topic on a global scale.
Growing up as an Italian in Australia, Tony has been building relationships across cultures from a very young age. It is that natural ability to build strong connections with people wherever he is that has helped him build global communities online and off that are exploring and promoting the sustainable use of aquatic biofuels in the developing world. Being trilingual allows Tony to regularly connect with colleagues from the USA to Australia and from Honduras to Viet Nam. His blog on aquatic biofuels has stimulated lively discussion and allows him to regularly report his new research to his global network.
With degrees in environmental studies and his continuing studies in energy and sustainable development, Tony continues to explore this area which can provide real solutions to the incredible energy challenges faced by countries around the world.
In addition to being published in leading bioenergy publications both on and offline, Tony has been quoted in Fortune Small Business Magazine and on CNN.com. He is also a member of several professional associations, including the National Algae Association, and regularly attends industry events, like the 2000 Algae Biomass Summit in San Francisco, USA. Most recently Tony presented his paper at the EMUNI (European Mediterranean University) centre, where he higlighted the latest developments on algae oil production and the adaptability of this technology to the countries bordering the Mediterranean Region.
Whenever Tony finds the time he is committed to helping the community. He has done fundraising for AIDS awareness in Australia, and volunteers at CARITAS in his current home town of Rome.
When he is not working, Tony enjoys preparing haute cuisine for friends and family. Passionate about food and wine, he regularly attends professional cooking, wine and food appreciation courses. Tony also enjoys international travel, as well as spending time in nature and the outdoors, particularly bushwalking, hiking and camping.
Aquatic Biofuel Specialist
