Biomass Conversion: Biofuels David Gale & Meghan Kusper http://home.cc.umanitoba.ca/%7Eumprystj/PLNT4600/mini3/mini3.1_files/image007.jpg

Biofuels Biofuels- obtained from biological matter. 80% renewable Example of biofuels: vegetable oil, biodiesel, bioalcohols, bioethers, and biogas

Goal of Biofuels The main goal of using biofuels is to replace fossil fuels. Reduce pollution of CO2 emissions www.petrol-head.com/images/2007/07/24/traffic.jpg

Making a Difference Reduces smog by 50% 78% less carbon dioxide emissions 8% less sulfur oxide Lowers asthma and other lung disorders http://www1.eere.energy.gov/biomass/images/biomass_atp_enviro_ghemissions.gif

How does biofuel work? Sustainable renewable resources; abundant and available in the United States Made from plant oils, animal fats, and even recycled grease Works in conventional diesel engines http://climatelab.org/@api/deki/files/213/=Diagram_1.jpg

Technological Obstacles Conversion of cellulose into fuel ethanol Conversion of existing plants to cellulose facilities http://www.foocus.com/siteimages/Novelties/Warning-Challenges.jpg

Political/economical obstacles Cost of production is higher than petroleum No assured market for by-products of biofuel production Production requires a license Increased food prices Increased hunger, and rural unemployment Destruction of cultures of rural communities

Negative environmental impacts Increases the use of fertilizers and pesticides Requires large scale monocultures of trees, sugarcane, corn, oilpalm, soy and other crops Destruction of watersheds and pollution of rivers, lakes, and streams The use of GMOs is risky

Bibliography http://www.biodieselsustainability.org/ http://home.cc.umanitoba.ca/%7Eumprystj/PLNT4600/mini3/mini3.1_files/image007.jpg http://www.alternative-energy-news.info/technology/biofuels/ http://www.biofuelus.com/biofuel/biodiesel/biodiesel-impact-on-the-environment.php http://www.energybulletin.net/node/21845