Updates and Prospects of Second Generation Biofuel Feedstocks

Frost and Sullivan (a management information services provider) recently published an analysis on the present and future prospects of second generation biofuel feedstocks. Second generation biofuel feedstocks are those which are derived from non-food sources. The more popular second generation feedstocks are: (a) cellulosic biomass (such as agricultural residues, grasses and fast growing trees) for ethanol, and (b) jatropha, camelina and algae for biodiesel. Some highlights of the report are: (1) Almost all of the production technologies for second generation biofuels are in the "final stages of commercialization", and may be realized within the next two years, (2) Although there will be no lack of feedstock for second generation biofuels, feestock/biomass accessibility will play "a catalytic role in ensuring the long-term commercial viability of second generation biofuels", (3) Algae is predicted to be a potentially lucrative alternative market for fuels in the future, (4) Japan has successfully tested camelina-, jatropha- and algae-based biofuels, (5) "Policies and the long term renewable fuel targets set by the European Union and the United States will significantly assist in establishing second generation biofuels"; these countries will help sustain the commercial success of second generation biofuels up to 2020.

The Frost and Sullivan website (URL above) gives instructions on how to obtain a copy of the full report.