In recent history biofuels such as biodiesel and bioethanol have become industry all over the world. Many nations have actually taken a keen interest in their continued manufacture and use, including developing countries such as Brazil which is viewed as a world leader in biofuel development. Even smaller countries such as the United Kingdom presently utilize around one and a half million litres of biofuel a year and objective to increase this three-fold within the next ten years.
But wait, there's a problem.
There is however a considerable issue; with the increase in popularity of biofuels as has the level of criticism increased. From the "food versus fuel" debate, links to food cost boosts and impact of water resources to concerns over deforestation and loss of biodiversity there are installing obstacles for the fuel to get rid of.
But there is wish to be discovered in a range of innovations broadly referred to as 2nd generation biofuels. Such fuels are produced from sustainable feedstock instead of the generally editable crops used in first generation biofuels (sugarcane, corn etc.) therefore preventing many of the problems pointed out formerly.
Expect the future
One such technology is Algae Fuel, which can produce as much as 3 hundred times more oil per acre than traditional crops along with growing twenty to thirty times faster. As if these benefits weren't significant enough it is likewise possible to cultivate algae on generally unusable land such as land stricken by dry spell or consisting of really high levels of saline.
Another extremely appealing fuel is Cellulosic Ethanol which is merely fuel produced from non-edible parts of plants (or undoubtedly grasses and other plants that are inedible). This fuel source shares some advantages with Algae fuel such as high per-acre performance but has the distinct benefit that no unique cultivation is required. Cellulose is included in almost all plants growing throughout the world.
Or should that be wish for the present?
These may seem like science-fiction however the reality of the matter is that by 2008 the United States was already producing twelve million litres of fuel from cellulosic ethanol with production centers capable for producing an extra eighty million gallons each year in development.
There is much to be excited about in the Biofuel industry from both a company and environmental perspective and continued growth especially in 2nd generation technologies appears ensured. Such rapid grown represents an interesting time for alternative energy production.
To keep abreast of the most recent advancements and industry projections for alternative energy and biofuels it's suggested the reader defer to expert biofuel market analysis.
