1. Biomass Conversion: Biofuels
David Gale & Meghan Kusper

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

3. Goal of Biofuels
The main goal of using biofuels is to replace fossil fuels.
Reduce pollution of CO2 emissions

4. Making a Difference Reduces smog by 50%
78% less carbon dioxide emissions
8% less sulfur oxide
Lowers asthma and other lung disorders

5. 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

6. Technological Obstacles
Conversion of cellulose into fuel ethanol
Conversion of existing plants to cellulose facilities

7. 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

8. 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

9. Bibliography http://www.biodieselsustainability.org/