Energy Plant Species (their Use And Impact On Environment And Development)

Biomass currently accounts for about 15% of the global primary energy consumption and is particularly important as an energy resource in developing countries. It will undoubtedly play an increasing role in the world's energy consumption.What crops make up this large percentage of our energy resources? Where do they grow and what can be done to boost the levels of production? What impact does their cultivation have on the environment and development?The book starts with an outline of the importance and position of primary production of biomass, and then of biofuel feedstocks. It then goes on to cover all the main potential energy crops. For each main species it gives a brief description, outlines the ecological requirements, methods of propagation, crop management, rotation and production, harvesting, handling and storage, processing and utilization, and finishes with selected references.The text moves on to look at the regional distribution of energy crops, logistics systems, impact on the environment and climate and some social and economic analysis before ending with perspectives and conclusions.Anybody whose work involves biomass production, whether as agriculturalist, farmer, producer, planner or policy maker will find this book to be an invaluable reference work, as will anybody working with renewable energy more generally.