Valero has followed other oil companies in beginning to stake their claim in the nascent algae-based biofuels. Valero has invested an undisclosed amount in Colorado based Solix biofuels. Solix’s system is able to utilize CO2 emissions from power plants. Read more here. Solix Biofuels
Two articles published in “Science” state that when taking into account land changes associated with biofuels, that are NOT carbon neutral. The increase in demand for biofuels has resulted in an increase in arable land, which often has resulted in deforestation and destruction of grasslands. Interesting stat: One study finds over a 30 year period. biofuels contribute nearly twice as much carbon dioxide than gasoline would. Read more here.
Beneath the ocean there are forests of seaweed that act as a carbon sink. Some researchers believe stimulated growth of these forests could sequester a substantial amount of atmospheric carbon. However, obviously the seaweed will eventually decompose and then some of the carbon will once again be released. Some portion of the biomass may be sequestered as it falls to the ocean floor. Given seaweed and algae’s rapid growth, if a more long-term growth sequestration scenario is found these plants could prove to be very profitable. Interesting stat: Some types of seaweed can grow three or four meters (yards) long in only three months. Read more here.
The livestock industry is responsible for a large amount of methane emissions, a potent green house gas. Interestingly though, kangaroo do not produce methane. Australian researchers are attempting to transfer the bacteria that live in kangaroo stomachs into cattle and sheep. Could this be an easy carbon credit? Interesting stat: In Australia, 14% of green house gas emissions are from cattle and sheep flatulence. Read more here.
In 2008, Kazakhstan will adopt increased regulation of their fledging biofuel industry. Kazakhstan has significant wheat stocks for ethanol production and plans are in the works for rapeseed production for biodiesel. However, currently production is not the problem. High import taxes have limited their sales. Interesting stat: Canadian firm, Farm Pure Global, states their demonstration farm in Kazakhstan is capable of producing 1.1 tonnes to 2.4 tonnes of rapeseeds per hectare. Read more here. Farm Pure Global.
