As a society we are faced with significant issues. There is an urgent need to address the challenge of climate change while continuing to promote development in the world's poorest countries. From an agricultural perspective, our land, water, energy, and food systems are inextricably linked. New technologies are needed to provide sustainable energy solutions and at the same time enhance food availability and distribution. A biofuel is a fuel that is produced through contemporary biological processes, such as agriculture and anaerobic digestion. It is used in two ways, either directly or by converting it into biofuel. Sugarcane is one of the world's most important agricultural crops with a long history of use for the production of food, energy, and coproducts. Growing across many countries in tropical and subtropical regions, sugarcane has a significant global footprint. The high photosynthetic efficiency and high biomass production makes sugarcane an ideal feedstock for both food production and the coproduction of non-fossil-based chemicals, polymers, and energy products.
While the opportunities for the use of sugarcane for ethanol production are well-known, there are many other potential products of similar or higher value that can be produced from the crop. Technology developments, most particularly in the fields of agricultural and industrial biotechnology, are providing new opportunities to diversify the revenue base for sugar producers. Not only does the application of this technology promote economic viability of sugarcane producers and their regional communities, it also helps to address our over-reliance on products from fossil-based resources, and hence contributes to global decarbonization activities. These economic, social, and environmental benefits, however, will only be achieved where technologies are adopted in an appropriate manner. This book is a compilation of chapters that discuss the most vital concepts in the field of biofuel. It aims to provide the readers with thorough knowledge about this subject. Through this book, we attempt to further enlighten the readers about the various techniques and technologies associated with this field. Different approaches, evaluations and methodologies have been included in it. This book is an essential guide for researchers in this field.
Vesta Boren received his M.Sc. in Biomass and Waste for Energy and Materials from Agricultural University, Bahia. He is a Visiting Professor at University College, San Lorenzo. He is engaged in the researches focused on lignocellulosic biomass, chemical conversion and environmental impact of biomass. Campbell has authored and edited more than 60 articles, journal papers and book chapters in the field of biomass. He has travelled and lectured extensively throughout Europe and United States; primarily for higher education.
