Researchers at the University of Wisconsin have recently developed a new catalytic process that can convert almost any type of plant matter into fuel.

• Huber, G.W. "Production of Liquid Alkanes by Aqueous-phase Processing of Biomass-Derived Carbohydrates" Science 308(5727): 1446-1450. 3 June 2005 at www.sciencemag.org and www.cnn.com/2005/TECH/06/07/biofuel.vision/

Traditional biofuels, such as ethanol, rely on the fatty acid portion of the plant, which only comprises approximately 10 percent of plant mass. With the new catalytic process, agricultural waste could be transformed into biofuels more readily. In addition, the advanced process produces 2.2 units of energy for every unit used, and is more efficient than existing biofuels (which produce half of that amount of energy per unit used).

Implications: The innovative catalytic reactor is not only more efficient, but could also cut down on agricultural waste and reduce the need to convert lands into biofuel stocks. Biofuels are a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels and create farming jobs and income. In addition, sustainably grown crops release no CO2 over their lifetime.