The bio-energy mistake

[retrod]

In the U.S. it is blended (formulated) with gasoline and is the only fuel available in high polution areas. In these areas it is called an oxygenated fuel. Various blends are also available nationwide and used in flex-fuel vehicles. I agree it is a waste of valuable farmland.

RD

It is my understanding that the  grain  used for  ethanol  is  then  used as feed for livestock .   

gary

Yes, the grains can be used for feed, however less grain is being planted as farmers plant more corn for ethanol. RD

"Research has shown that distiller's grains can be used for as much as 60 percent of the diet in beef cattle." "We've achieved smaller levels with dairy cattle. It is clear, however, that we can greatly expand the use of distiller's grains in growing and finishing rations for beef cattle."

[mapsrg]

http://biodiesel.rain-barrel.net/biodiesel-from-algae/   This offers the best alternative to crop production of fuel..diesel is 30% more efficient than petrol .Diesel  can also be produced from waste cooking oil and tallow .........Diesel is the fuel of the future and algae biodiesel offers an attainable answer to energy sustainability

[FreeEnergy]

sure eatable things are just fine to use as fuel, after we eat it that is!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waste-to-energy

[retrod]

http://biodiesel.rain-barrel.net/biodiesel-from-algae/   This offers the best alternative to crop production of fuel..diesel is 30% more efficient than petrol .Diesel  can also be produced from waste cooking oil and tallow .........Diesel is the fuel of the future and algae biodiesel offers an attainable answer to energy sustainability

Lots of possibilities with biodiesel technology, even chicken fat can be converted with new methods.
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/12/071220230827.htm
RD

[mapsrg]

And now we are starting to see the rising food prices associated with cropland being used as supply for biofuels.....and already we have political fallout with food riots in some countries.