Jatropha: From global hype to local opportunity
- ISSN: 01401963
Abstract
The global interest in biofuels does not go unnoticed. The keen interest in biofuels is mainly inspired by climate change issues, aiming to reduce CO2 emissions, as well as by geopolitical issues, aiming to reduce nations dependence on fossil fuels (Verrastro and Ladislaw, 2007). However, biofuels are highly controversial because their production holds significant economic (e.g., subsidies and protectionism), social (e.g., food security) and environmental risks (e.g., loss of biodiversity and water recharge, negative carbon balance) (FAO, 2008; Fargione et al., 2008; Mitchell, 2008; Searchinger et al., 2008; Stephens et al., 2001; UN-Energy, 2007). Jatropha curcas takes a special place in this debate, as it is claimed to produce biofuel and enhance socio- economic development while reclaiming marginal and degraded lands in (semi-)arid regions (Francis et al., 2005), without competing with food production or depleting natural carbon stocks and ecosystem services.
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