Potential Negative Effects

Energy biofuels are faced with heavy criticism because the first-generation bio­fuels from sugar, corn, and soybeans compete on agricultural land with sugar, corn, and soybeans cultivated for biofuels. This is the essence of the “fuel-or-food” debate.

Jatropha is a sustainable alternative to first-generation biofuels, because you cannot eat Jatropha. The international Jatropha Alliance (www. jatropha-alliance. org) wants to stop the general demonization of biofuels, and is demanding a more differentiated discussion from politicians and non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

Sustainable production of biofuels means that today’s social, ecological, and economic needs have to be met without wasting the resources of future generations. Jatropha projects have the potential to fulfill this demand as they promise social, ecological, and economic returns. The cultivation of Jatropha provides economic means for local communities to develop local economies.

With proper care, Jatropha grows abundantly on marginal, unused lands. Worldwide, millions of hectares of relatively poor soil can be (re-)used to cultivate Jatropha, so that the issues of land competition and endangering natural habitats do not arise. In addition, as a non-edible crop Jatropha has no effect on food prices. Therefore, Jatropha is one way out of the food versus fuel debate. Although this is well known, many politicians and NGOs keep criticizing biofuels, thus also put­ting Jatropha projects at risk.

Climate change is the main challenge of our time. Jatropha contributes to reducing carbon dioxide emissions. In particular, the airline industry is very interested in using Jatropha-based jet fuel to improve their carbon footprint.

In order to realize its full potential, 1 million hectares of Jatropha has to be planted every year. The Jatropha industry is ready to prove the promising advan­tages of Jatropha. However, in times of economic crisis investors are reluctant to fund Jatropha projects, despite the high demand for Jatropha oil.

Jatropha is not a wonder crop, but it has significant advantages that need to be developed further. Thilo Zelt is president of the Jatropha Alliance, and founded

GEXSI and Green Power Ltd. The Jatropha Alliance now represents the majority of important companies in the sector. Its aim is to promote the development of sustainable biofuels, feedstocks, and the build-up of the Jatropha industry.

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