Liquid biofuels made from biomass are attracting increasing interest worldwide. The two primary biofuels consumed are ethanol and plant-oil-based biodiesel. Interest is motivated by several factors:
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Diversification of energy sources and lower exposure to the price volatility of the international oil market
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Rural Development
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Reduction in harmful pollutants from vehicle exhaust
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Net reductions in lifecycle GHG emissions
Recent surges in world oil prices, concerns about energy security, and concerns about climate change resulting from greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions have prompted industrial and developing countries alike to pursue avenues for commercializing biofuels. Developing countries also see biofuels as a way to stimulate rural development, create jobs, and save foreign exchange. On the other hand, developing countries are also concerned with the potential social and economic costs of biofuel programs.
The World Bank is providing technical assistance and organizing seminars to promote knowledge sharing, discuss factors that contribute to successful bioethanol industries, and develop best practices that will help to overcome the challenges. To such effects, please refer to the Publications below.
Publications
Potential for Biofuels for Transport in Developing Countries (ESM 312/05 PDF File 1.17MB)
(Masami Kojima, Todd Johnson)
Knowledge Exchange Series (Feb 2006): More on Biofuels in Developing Countries (PDF File 0.18MB)
(Masami Kojima, Todd Johnson)
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