Sugar cane biofuel has been called a miracle biofuel by many around the world for a number of reasons. There are many types of biofuels, and each biofuel production has pros and cons. One of the reasons that sugar cane biofuel is considered a great option is because it does not require much energy to transform it into ethanol. Another benefit is that the fiber left over after the juice has been removed is used as a heat source for the process. The ethanol that is produced can be used as a clean burning and environmentally friendly alternative fuel for vehicles. There are no greenhouse gas emissions, pollutants from burning this type of fuel, or many of the other negative effects that traditional fossil fuels can cause.
Sugar cane biofuel is not all sweet though, this is one of the types of biofuels that does have negative aspects as well. Even though biofuel production of this alternative source may require less outside energy, there are some drawbacks. One is the debate over food versus fuel, because sugar cane is used in the food supply. Large scale production using this source may lead to deforestation of the rain forests for fertile crop land needed to grow large amounts of feedstock. The plant must also be processed shortly after being cut, within forty eight hours so the sugars are still available for fermentation. The global cost of sugar may also increase because this product sees increasing demand due to both the food and the fuel requirements.
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Weeds, corn, and food processing waste, now sugar cane: there are so many new biofuel possibilities that it’s exciting to see another viable energy alternative.
December 14th, 2009 at 4:11 pm