Abstract. Mixed oxide catalysts derived from Mg–Co–Al–La layered double hydroxide (LDH) with various Mg:Co:Al:La ratios were prepared by co-precipitation and calcination. Their catalytic performance as heterogeneous base catalysts for the transesterification of canola oil with ethanol to produce biodiesel was compared over 5 h in a batch reactor at 473 K. Amending the catalyst by the …