Incentives to drive a rapid recovery by the sector, one of the hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, will contribute to a resumption of world economic growth, save or create millions of jobs, and contain global emissions of carbon dioxide, experts say.
Governments should assure continuity of policies that promote bioenergy, biofuels and bioproducts, say the speakers in a webinar held by the Brazilian Bioenergy Science and Technology Conference, which is supported by BIOEN-FAPESP.
Brazilian researchers used genetic engineering to develop a low-cost platform for the production of enzymes that break down sugarcane trash and bagasse for conversion into biofuel. The novel molecules have many potential industrial applications.
Novel forms of societal behavior and political priorities during the coronavirus crisis may become permanent, creating even more favorable conditions for increased use of renewables, as discussed in a webinar hosted by the FAPESP Bioenergy Research Program.
The review article by researchers at the University of São Paulo shows the advantages of this technological alternative, which is nontoxic and much cheaper than other methods.
With FAPESP’s support, researchers have succeeded in mapping 99.1% of the plant’s genes, providing knowledge that will help improve its resistance to disease and increase its biomass yield for fuel or sugar production.
Glycerol fuel cell can replace batteries in cell phones and laptops, and could be used in future to run electric cars and supply power to homes.
Brazilian researchers calculated the amount of nutrients in sugarcane leaves, which are normally left on the ground after harvest, and the equivalent in fertilizer required to maintain crop yield if the straw is removed.
Using a protein produced by a fungus that lives in the Amazon, Brazilian researchers developed a molecule capable of increasing glucose release from biomass for fermentation.
A study conducted at the FAPESP-funded Research Centre for Gas Innovation pointed to the environmental and economic benefits of the cargo transportation industry in São Paulo State’s interior adopting LNG.
Brazilian researchers develop a program for high-performance computers to map specific portions of plant DNA faster and less expensively for use in breeding more productive and stress-resistant varieties.
Description of genes involved in sugarcane root cell separation could lead to the development of varieties with softened cell walls similar to those of papaya, boosting the production of second-generation ethanol.
In a book resulting from a project supported by FAPESP, researchers appraise the potential of sugarcane bioenergy as a strategy for sustainable development in Latin American, Caribbean and African countries.
