In recent history biofuels such as biodiesel and bioethanol have ended up being industry worldwide. Many nations have actually taken an eager interest in their continued manufacture and use, including establishing nations such as Brazil which is seen as a world leader in biofuel development. Even smaller sized countries such as the United Kingdom currently utilize around one and a half million litres of biofuel a year and goal to increase this three-fold within the next 10 years.
But wait, there's a problem.
There is however a considerable problem; with the increase in appeal of biofuels as has the level of criticism increased. From the "food versus fuel" debate, links to food price increases and effect of water resources to issues over deforestation and loss of biodiversity there are mounting difficulties for the fuel to get rid of.
But there is want to be found in a range of innovations broadly referred to as second generation biofuels. Such fuels are produced from sustainable feedstock rather than the traditionally editable crops used in first generation biofuels (sugarcane, corn etc.) hence avoiding much of the problems pointed out previously.
Expect the future
One such innovation is Algae Fuel, which can produce as much as three hundred times more oil per acre than traditional crops as well as growing twenty to thirty times more rapidly. As if these benefits weren't substantial enough it is likewise possible to cultivate algae on generally unusable land such as land stricken by drought or containing really high levels of saline.
Another hugely appealing fuel is Cellulosic Ethanol which is simply fuel produced from non-edible parts of plants (or indeed turfs and other plants that are inedible). This fuel source shares some benefits with Algae fuel such as high per-acre efficiency but has the unique advantage that no unique growing is required. Cellulose is consisted of in practically all plants growing throughout the world.
Or should that be wish for the present?
These might sound like science-fiction but the truth of the matter is that by 2008 the United States was currently producing twelve million litres of fuel from cellulosic ethanol with production facilities capable for producing an extra eighty million gallons per year in advancement.
There is much to be thrilled about in the Biofuel market from both an organization and eco-friendly viewpoint and continued growth particularly in 2nd generation innovations seems ensured. Such quick grown represents an interesting time for alternative energy production.
To keep abreast of the current developments and market forecasts for alternative energy and biofuels it's recommended the reader delay to professional biofuel market analysis.