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The depletion of fossil fuel reserves and increases in oil prices have resulted in the quest for the ideal biofuel feedstock. With corn-based ethanol contributing to increased food prices, non-edible vegetable oil-seed plants (e.g., jatropha) and second-generation alternatives (e.g., switchgrass and algae) are being explored as potential feedstocks for biofuels. Biofuels provide a renewable alternative to fossil fuels and have several potential benefits; environmental as well as societal. However, there are concerns about the long-term sustainability of biofuels. This thesis discusses some of the major concerns about the lifecycle behaviour and the water footprint of jatropha-based biodiesel, while also addressing the socio-economic impacts, the ethical issues and the overall sustainability of biofuels in general.
| Advisor: | Masten, Susan |
| Commitee: | |
| School: | Michigan State University |
| School Location: | United States -- Michigan |
| Source: | MAI 49/02M, Masters Abstracts International |
| Source Type: | DISSERTATION |
| Subjects: | Alternative Energy, Sustainability, Environmental engineering |
| Keywords: | |
| Publication Number: | 1487163 |
| ISBN: | 978-1-124-33368-7 |
