Questioning the sustainability of biofuels is never far from the headlines and hear we ask an informed expert on how he says the development of biofuels, especially upon Developing Nations.
What positive effects do you see for the use of Biofuels upon developing nations?
Developing nations with available agricultural and pasture land have a comparative advantage in biofuels production not only in regard to land but also in low labour costs. By creating viable rural-based agro-industries they can create new livelihoods to spur rural development. Those that are oil importers will benefit economically and strategically.
You are writing a book on the Food & Fuel or Food vs Fuel impacts – how do you see this complex issue?
Densely populated countries that are already net food importers need to exercise caution when developing biofuel programmes unless there are specific benefits that outweigh the risks to food production. Otherwise, there are many options where food and fuel crops are complementary and biofuel crops can grow on lands unsuitable for food. Indeed, in the long term, as fossil fuels run out, bio-resources will form one large stream for food, feed, fibre and fuel – competition becomes less relevant because crops with multiple purposes and products will be more and more highly valued.
To what extent is it possible to separate out and measure the indirect Land Use Change caused only by biofuels?
Researchers and policymakers should focus on understanding better the direct land use impacts and stop chasing after indirect impacts, which are inherently uncertain and also generally not controllable. The indirect impacts are simply a result of land and agriculture (via biofuels) becoming more integrated into the international economy. Thus, land, like any other resource is traded internationally and impacted internationally by the substitution of one set of products for another.
How can other any negative effects of biofuels be mitigated?
The main difference from biofuels and other energy sources is the land-intensive nature (except for residues or-water based crops). Therefore the most productive crops in energy per unit area (such as sugar cane) should be prioritised. Where water scarcity is a concern (as in many areas of Africa) then water-efficient crops such as sweet sorghum should get priority. Irrigation, when needed, should be an advanced style (e.g. drip irrigation).
Francis X. Johnson is speaking at the 2010 World Biofuels Markets Conference in March where he joins 200 of the industry’s most influential speakers.
Click here for a full list of confirmed speakers
Click here for a full conference agenda
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