Third-generation biofuels

As a response to the problems associated with the recent worldwide implantation of second — generation biofuels, some authors propose focusing on the processes involved in the production of such biofuels. This new approach consists of the utilization of microbial enzymes to achieve the current chemical pretreatment steps of cellulosic or starchy raw materials (Carere et al., 2008). Microorganisms deal with the degradation of lignocellulose, hemicellulose or lipid-rich materials by means of enzyme catalyzed processes at near to room temperature. Therefore, microbial enzymes could be used to make the current biofuels industry cleaner and greener. Furthermore, the production of biofuels would be coupled with the management of woody and oily wastes, converting these residues into suitable and cheap raw materials (Steen et al., 2010).