Generation vs. Generation

    First-generation or conventional biofuels are made from sugar, starch, or vegetable oil. The most common of this kind is ethanol. These fuels are produced by the fermentation of sugars derived from wheat, corn, sugar beets, sugar cane, or molasses. First generation is often thought of as the better choice but has now become a problem because it is taking away from the production of crops for the world market. Second generation biofuels were created to be rid of the problems of the first. They are produced from non-food crops such as wood, organic waste, food crop waste and specific biomass crops, therefore eliminating the main problem with first generation biofuels. Third generation biofuels are based on the improvement of the production of biomass. It takes advantage of specially engineered energy crops such as algae as its energy source. The algae are cultured to act as low-cost, high energy and entirely renewable feed stock. Fourth generation biofuels are aimed at not only producing sustainable energy but also a way of capturing and storing CO2. Biomass materials, which have absorbed CO2 while growing, are converted into fuel using the same processes as second generation biofuels. 

Biodiesel vs. Ethanol

  • Biodiesel is easier to integrate into the energy matrix of Latin America. Many vehicles are diesel fueled and diesel is also used in certain areas for electricity generation. Biodiesel can be integrated without any modifications to engines, whereas ethanol requires an engine conversion process.
  • Biodiesel production uses a simpler process - resulting in fuel that costs less than ethanol.
  • Biodiesel can be produced from non-food feedstock. This means that the feedstock does not serve to diminish food supply. It also means that feedstock used for biodiesel can be shielded from global commodity prices.
  • Biodiesel feedstock can be grown on somewhat marginal lands, meaning there is no need to deforest in order to free up land to ensure sufficient feedstock supplies.
  • Biodiesel burns cleaner than ethanol.