Why biofuel is a bad idea
At first glance, biofuel might seem to be the a decent solution
to several of the developed world's problems. Dwindling fossil fuel
reserves, the high price of petrol and diesel, the constant pressure to
reduce carbon dioxide emissions and the struggle to make a profit from
farmland are all pressures which have resulted in a growing market for
biofuel.
introduction
Marketed as a cheaper, cleaner alternative to most traditional
fuels, biofuel can be made using several sources including the
following:
- Maize
- Rapeseed
- Corn
- Sugarcane
the trade-off
In theory, the carbon dioxide produced by the burning of
biofuels is partially offset by the gas absorbed by the plants during
growth, and in some cases the fuel itself produces less carbon dioxide
per gram burned. This all seems like positive news, however the most
commonly used biodiesels are derived from maize and rapeseed, which
pollute 50% and 70% more greenhouse gas than fossil fuel. In addition,
significant energy is needed to grow the crop, further reducing the
benefits.
consequences
There are additional, more immediate and serious consequences
of biofuel which driven by the economic benefits. On a global scale,
farming is not very profitable (especially in less developed countries).
The sudden demand for biodiesel has created an opportunity which is
hard for traditional farmers to ignore. In addition, the demand is now
so great that huge areas of rainforest are being cleared to make way for
more farmland.
Summary
Do not believe the marketing campaigns - biofuels are doing
lasting and serious damage to our already threatened planet. Please
research this topic for yourself using credible independent sources.
Help stop one of the greatest misunderstandings of this decade. If you
want to help reduce carbon emission, cycle more or buy a low emission
diesel such as the two cylinder Fiat 500 (which is also great fun to
drive).
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