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The world is on the verge of an unprecedented increase in the production and use of biofuels for transport. The combination of rising oil prices, issues of security, climate instability and pollution, deepening poverty in rural and agricultural areas, and a host of improved technologies, is propelling governments to enact powerful incentives for the use of these fuels, which is in turn sparking investment.
Biofuels for Transport is a unique and comprehensive assessment of the opportunities and risks of the large-scale production of biofuels, which demystifies complex questions and concerns, such as the 'food v. fuel' debate. Global in scope, it is further informed by five country studies from Brazil, China, Germany, India and Tanzania. The authors conclude that biofuels will play a significant role in our energy future, but warn that the large-scale use of biofuels carries risks that require focused and immediate policy initiatives.
Translated from the German edition, originally published in 2006.
- Preface
- Executive Summary
Part I: Status and Global Trends
- Status
- Liquid Biofuels
- First Generation Feedstock
Part II: New Technologies, Crops, and Prospects
- Next Generation Feedstock
- New Technologies
- Long Term Production
Part III: Economic and Social Issues
- Economic and Energy Security
- Agriculture and Rural Development
- International Trade
Part IV: Environmental Issues
- Energy Balances
- Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Climate Stability
- Feedstock Production
- Processing, Transport and Use
Part V: Market Introduction and Technology Strategies
- Infrastructure
- Vehicle and Engine Technologies
- Transfer of Technology and Expertise
Part VI: The Policy Framework
- Policies Around the World
- Standards and Certification
Part VII: Recommendations
Part VIII: Country Studies
- Appendices
- Glossary of Terms
- Bibliography
The Worldwatch Institute is an independent research organization that focuses on innovative solutions to global environmental, resource, and economic problems.
"This book by the Worldwatch Institute is the most authoritative work published so far on the production and use of biofuels covering not only the technical but also the key environmental, economic and social issues."
– Professor Josi Goldemberg, University of Sio Paulo Brazil, Former Secretary for the Environment of the State of Sio Paulo Brazil
"If you've got a friend or family member who has recently asked you, 'What's the deal with all this ethanol, biodiesel, switchgrass foofaraw?' here's some advice: Send them directly to the fresh-off-the-presses, 38-page executive summary of a new report on biofuels from the Worldwatch Institute."
– Andrew Leonard, Salon.com
"This is an excellent overview [...] packed with technical details and information [...] Overall, one of the best texts on energy and energy futures. It deserves the widest readership."
– Paul Ganderton, Big Pond
"Biofuels for Transport is a unique and comprehensive assessment of the opportunities and risks of the large-scale production of biofuels."
– African Business
"Biofuels for Transport is a tour de force through the complex array of issues associated with rapidly expanding biofuels markets around the world. Exploring both the risks and opportunities of biofuels production and consumption, this timely publication is a mustread for policy-makers, investors, entrepreneurs and civil society organizations interested in creating a more sustainable future."
– Julia Marton-Lefievre, Director General of the World Conservation Union (IUCN)
"Biofuels for Transport is an insightful and timely study of how biofuels can reach their potential to strengthen energy security, promote economic development and protect the environment. This much-needed analysis will benefit both policy-makers and practitioners."
– Senator Richard Lugar
"A compelling synthesis of the current and future trends in biofuels, with a thorough assessment of actions that must be taken to ensure the sustainable development of this industry."
– Amory B. Lovins, Chairman and Chief Scientist of Rocky Mountain Institute
"An essential treatment of this vital subject."
– Vinod Khosla, founder of Khosla Ventures, USA
"[T]his book provides a broad and comprehensive insight into the current discussion and covers the relevant issues of the pros and cons of the biofuels discussion."
– Quarterly Journal of International Agriculture
"A comprehensive assessment of the opportunities and risks of the largescale production of biofuels [...] It will help equip readers with the sound knowledge required to make considered and intelligent choices and decisions."
– Splash
