23 scientists call for research on unintended consequences of advanced biofuels

An article by 23 scientists led by Michigan State researcher Philip Robertson and including EPA Scientific Advisory Board member and Purdue agricultural economist Otto Doering, called for an increase in collaborative research for cellulosic biofuels made from grasses and residues, to avoid the downside associated with grain-based biofuel development.

“It’s important that we begin thinking about how to deal with the unintended consequences of cellulosic biofuels as early as possible in order to ensure that they can be produced sustainably,” said Doering. We need to consider biofuel’s likely impact on water use and availability along with water quality, especially nutrient runoff. Greenhouse gas emissions must also be considered, as well as effects on soils and the landscape.”

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