Ed Burke Honored with AltWheels Award for Pioneering Biodiesel Leadership
In a significant recognition of his enduring commitment to clean energy solutions, Ed Burke, the Chairman of the Board of Dennis K. Burke, Inc., was awarded the prestigious AltWheels Green Fleet Award on October 6, 2025. This award celebrates Ed's remarkable leadership in the biodiesel industry, marking over 20 years of pioneering work in Massachusetts and beyond. As clean energy initiatives gained traction, Ed was already ahead of the curve, championing sustainable fuel alternatives long before they became mainstream.
Burke's journey in renewable energy began in the early 2000s when he partnered with Harvard University to initiate some of the first biodiesel programs in the region. His dedication was instrumental in shaping how various fleets, educational institutions, and even governmental agencies viewed and utilized clean fuels. His contributions were not merely theoretical; he played a pivotal role in establishing ASTM specifications for biodiesel, thereby setting national standards for fuel quality and performance. David Harris, Jr., Director of Harvard University Transit and Fleet Management, stated, "Ed was the foundation that gave us the opportunity to use biodiesel," highlighting the collaborative efforts between Burke's company and the university in promoting biodiesel adoption.
The family's service station in Chelsea, Massachusetts, was a key player in this transition, becoming the state's first retailer of biodiesel and E-85 ethanol. This facility even served as the backdrop for the Environmental Protection Agency's announcement regarding the Nonroad, Locomotive, and Marine (NLRM) regulations, further solidifying Burke's reputation as a trusted collaborator in advancing sustainable practices. Ed's advocacy did not stop at the local level; he took his insights and experiences to Washington, where he provided testimony before the U.S. Senate, emphasizing the importance of E-85 regulations and infrastructure enhancements. This advocacy was crucial in ensuring that the voices of early adopters were heard by policymakers, playing a critical role in the shift towards greener energy alternatives.
Throughout his tenure with AltWheels, Burke has not only contributed to discussions about clean energy but has also nurtured a network of innovators, fleet managers, and energy advocates. He has successfully maintained a dialogue around the need for sustainable solutions in energy and transportation, fostering a community that is keen on exploring and implementing innovative ideas. Ed's leadership at Dennis K. Burke, Inc. showcases a balance of tradition and innovation in an industry that is continually evolving—not afraid to embrace new technologies while staying true to its roots of service and community impact.
The AltWheels Fleet Day, held in Norwood, Massachusetts, brought together leaders from the energy and transportation sectors, providing a platform to celebrate progress towards a cleaner future. It was during this event that Ed was honored, alongside other innovators, acknowledging the strides made in the biodiesel space and the overall commitment to pushing the boundaries of environmental responsibility and sustainability. As we look to the future, Ed Burke's work serves as an inspiring example of how individual leadership can transform industries and promote cleaner, more sustainable practices across various sectors.