Problematic Bioenergy
Friday, 18. May 2007, 10:14:28
I have mentioned a couple of times that although use of biofuels could reduce our emissions of greenhouse gasses, it may create other problems. If we are not careful enough biofuels could devastate environment.
This is also known by the Unites nations. In its first major report on bioenergy, the U.N. tried to temper the enthusiasm over biofuels by raising the alarm about their potential negative impact. The United Nations said on Tuesday 8 May 2007 that biofuels like ethanol can greatly help reduce global warming and create jobs for the rural poor, but warned that the benefits may be offset by serious environmental problems and higher food prices for the hungry.
The report said that use of large-scale monocropping could lead to significant biodiversity loss, soil erosion and nutrient leaching. It noted that soaring palm oil demand has already led to the clearing of tropical forests in southeast Asia. Such clearings could result in emissions that were even higher than those caused by fossil fuels. In addition, the diversion of land used to grow food for fuel will increase food prices for basic commodities, putting a strain on the poor. Already, there has been recent steep rises in maize and sugar prices.
See also my post on CO as Fuel Source.
This is also known by the Unites nations. In its first major report on bioenergy, the U.N. tried to temper the enthusiasm over biofuels by raising the alarm about their potential negative impact. The United Nations said on Tuesday 8 May 2007 that biofuels like ethanol can greatly help reduce global warming and create jobs for the rural poor, but warned that the benefits may be offset by serious environmental problems and higher food prices for the hungry.
The report said that use of large-scale monocropping could lead to significant biodiversity loss, soil erosion and nutrient leaching. It noted that soaring palm oil demand has already led to the clearing of tropical forests in southeast Asia. Such clearings could result in emissions that were even higher than those caused by fossil fuels. In addition, the diversion of land used to grow food for fuel will increase food prices for basic commodities, putting a strain on the poor. Already, there has been recent steep rises in maize and sugar prices.
See also my post on CO as Fuel Source.
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By mank1, # 18. May 2007, 10:36:11
Ole
By nielsol, # 18. May 2007, 16:30:53