In this issue, significant editorial pages are dedicated to "clean fuel" strategies. Sulfur is the leading nemesis of motor-fuel blending streams. Worldwide, many new regulations further reduce sulfur concentrations in gasoline and diesel. However, these reduction levels may give rise to other adversities.

Profit vs. profitability. Refiners who stay in the fuels business will be reconfiguring their refineries to process "cleaner / greener" fuels. Many factors will affect these plant schemes. Planning is crucial, especially when financing projects that offer limited return on investments. Desulfurization requirements are viewed as a cost-to-stay-in-business. It must be done. Yet, refiners are searching for their best options. Forming alliances with E&C contractors may eliminate some financial pain when selecting licensed technologies - some are still in the demonstration stage - or receiving bids from critical equipment.