Energy Plant Species: Their Use and Impact on Environment and Development / Edition 1

by N. EL Bassam

Overview

Biomass currently accounts for about 15 per cent of the global primary energy consumption and is particularly important as an energy resource in developing countries. It will undoubtedly play an increasing role in the world's energy consumption. Which crops make up this large percentage of our energy resources? Where do they grow and what can be done to boost the levels of production? What impact does their cultivation have on the environment and development? The book starts with aspects of biomass accumulation, harvesting, transportation and storage, as well as conversion technologies for biofuels. This is followed by a look at the environmental impact and economic and social dimensions, including prospects for renewable energy. The book then goes on to cover all the main potential energy crops. For each main species it gives a brief description, outlines the ecological requirements, methods of propagation, crop management, rotation and production, harvesting, handling and storage, processing and utilization, then finishes with selected references. All those whose work involves biomass production, whether as agriculturalist, student, farmer, producer, planner or policy maker will find this book an invaluable reference work.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781873936757
Publisher:	Taylor & Francis
Publication date:	03/01/1998
Edition description:	1
Pages:	334
Product dimensions:	6.12(w) x 9.19(h) x (d)

About the Author

Dr N. EL Bassam is Head of the Energy Crops Research Unit of the Federal Agricultural Research Centre (FAL), Braunschweig, Germany and Chairman of the Working Group: Biomass for Energy and the Environment, SREN, of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. The book is based on contributions from a distinguished panel of experts from around the world.

Table of Contents

Foreword * Preface * Part I * Basic Elements of Biomass Accumulation * Harvesting, Transportation and Storage * Conversion Technologies * Environmental Impact * Economic and Social Dimensions * Prospects for Renewable Energy * Part I - References * Part II * Energy Plant Species * Appendices * Indexes