What percentage of the global sugar supply was consumed by ethanol production in 2021?
In 2021, the production of ethanol consumed 20% of the global sugar supply. This figure represents a massive diversion of resources from food to fuel.
Common questions about Biofuel
Short answers, pulled from the story.
When will the European Commission phase out palm oil-based biofuels?
The European Commission has officially approved a measure to phase out palm oil-based biofuels by 2030. This decision addresses unsustainable agriculture practices that have caused significant environmental and social problems.
Which country produces the most bioethanol and what crop does it use?
Brazil stands out as the largest producer of bioethanol. The country utilizes sugarcane to power a significant portion of its transportation sector.
What is the lowest recorded emission level for biofuels in life-cycle assessments?
Life-cycle assessments show emissions ranging from as low as negative 127.1 grams of carbon dioxide equivalent per megajoule. This negative emission occurs when land-use change is not significant.
Why did most efforts to produce fuel from algae end by 2017?
By 2017, due to economic considerations, most efforts to produce fuel from algae had been abandoned or changed to other applications. The cost of cultivating these organisms remained very high and required large amounts of energy and fertilizer.