Global Bio-Fuel Processing and Production Trends

Abstract

Bio-fuels are important because they replace petroleum fuels. The production of biofuel feedstocks from agricultural and forestry sources has been considered for many years, particularly just after the 1970's “energy crisis”. A number of environmental and economic benefits are claimed for biofuels. Worldwide interest reflect convergence of developed and developing country perspectives on the role bio-fuels can play in energy for sustainable development. The increase in bio-fuels utilization has also been accompanied over the past 3–4 years with policy decisions that encourage future growth of these fuels. The United States and several European Union member states already pursue successful bio-fuel policy. This work presents a review of the thermochemical and biochemical methods that could be used to produce bio-fuels and the production trends of the products in the world.