The startup of ZeroPoint Clean Tech's biodiesel plant in Potsdam this week demonstrates once again the vital link that exists between Northern New York universities and the marketplace — in this instance, helping to find solutions to a global problem.

ZeroPoint began production of liquid diesel fuel from wood chips, palm pellets, sugar cane and other plant waste products. The company, which was founded by a Clarkson University graduate, has been gasifying wood pellets but is now turning plant scraps into liquid diesel fuel.

The company's financial analyst, Kurt H. West, believes it is "one of very few companies in the world to accomplish this to date." Mr. West, along with another company employee, Jonathan Parry, are graduates of Clarkson University. The technology is also based on research conducted by Clarkson University scientist Philip D. Leveson.

The biodiesel fuel coming out of the plant will be test-driven on two vehicles donated to the company and Clarkson University. Eventually, though, the Potsdam plant could produce enough biofuel to power every car in the town that now relies on diesel fuel, and with lower carbon dioxide emissions.

By keeping their focus on small-scale plants and the north country resources, ZeroTech officials hope to reduce energy consumption from unnecessary long-distance hauling of raw materials or the final product, further limiting emissions.

While the company looks to small-scale plants, the global implications of replicating the technology and operating model cannot be overlooked. Tuesday's startup attracted investors from India and Europe. The company also plans to build a plant in Tonawanda using the Clarkson-developed technology. The diesel fuel produced from renewable resources could be shipped all over the world.

Partnerships such as this between the private sector and public sector help ensure Northern New Yorkers that their innovative contributions will remain competitive in a global economy.