Biofuels

• What is a biofuel?

  A fuel made from recently living organisms
• Why is the distinction of "recently living" important for biofuels?

  Because fossil fuels come from organisms millions of years old
• What are the primary sources of biofuels?

  Plants and algae
• How do plants and algae contribute to biofuels?

  They photosynthesize and store solar energy
• Can animal waste be used for biofuels?

  Yes, but on a smaller scale
• Why are biofuels considered carbon neutral?

  They absorb CO2 while growing
• What makes biofuels a renewable resource?

  They can be grown repeatedly
• What is a benefit of biofuels regarding cost?

  They are relatively cheap to make
• How can biofuels be utilized with existing vehicles?

  They can be mixed with fossil fuels
• What is a significant environmental concern related to growing biofuels?

  It may involve converting natural land
• What is a consequence of converting land for biofuel production?

  It can lead to deforestation and CO2 release
• What energy requirements are associated with biofuels?

  Harvesting, processing, and transporting require energy
• Why is it difficult to assess the overall impact of biofuels?

  They may release more CO2 than expected
• How can biofuels be viewed in relation to fossil fuels?

  They can be a great substitute when used properly
• What are the pros and cons of biofuels?

  Pros:

  • Made from recently living organisms
  • Carbon neutral when grown
  • Renewable resource
  • Relatively cheap to produce
  • Easy to transport and mix with fossil fuels

  
  

  Cons:

  • Requires land conversion
  • May lead to deforestation
  • Energy required for harvesting and processing
  • Overall CO2 impact is uncertain
• What is the conclusion about the use of biofuels?

  They should be used where it makes sense