14 DAY TRIAL // The researchers from the University of British Columbia led a study which indicates the fact that wood-based biofuel can become a viable alternative for the fuel manufactured out of corn, if it receives the proper support from the government and major players which operate in this field of activity.
At this point in time, a mixture of gasoline and corn ethanol has been implemented on a large scale to satisfy the great demand of sustainable products. Wood-based biofuel is not yet an option taken into consideration in America and Canada, due to the fact that manufacturing processes are too expensive.
The experts are keen on exploring the green benefits provided by this earth-friendly source and are now trying to lower the costs of such operations.
While producing cellulosic ethanol on a large commercial scale, it is likely that the costs will decrease substantially, even without the government's intervention, according to the recent study elaborated by the UBC's Faculty of Forestry.
"As industrial production increases, cellulosic ethanol is likely to become more competitive with corn ethanol for a share of the renewable fuels market," says Jamie Stephen, from UBC, the author of the study.
For Stephen, this sector allows several innovations which will succeed in making wood biofuel a valid competitor.
He highlights the fact that major companies can rely on cheaper wood-based ethanol fuel by decreasing the capital costs of facilities, equipment, enzymes, while also experiencing the incentives triggered by co-products such as electricity.
If corn managed to beat wood when it comes to costs, the second option is more likely to become a future resource when we think about its long-term sustainability, the effect it has upon the environment and its unlimited potential.
"If we consider other factors, like energy security, the environmental impact and availability of resources, cellulosic ethanol becomes a more competitive option for Canada and the United States," added Stephen.
Canada and the United States are the best regions which value the advantages of wood-based biofuel, but this resource has a long way ahead to prove its actual efficiency.
Without the government's contribution, despite all innovations showcased by researchers, cellulosic ethanol will have a hard time competing with the much more advanced and popular corn ethanol industry.