What is the role and purpose of the research into the potential for ethanol production from biomass in South Africa?
Bioethanol is a multipurpose product that can unlock various commercial opportunities in South Africa’s economy. The ultimate aim is to move towards a more sustainable, lower-carbon economy.
Bioethanol can be used for blending with petrol (for the local or international market), or for conversion to sustainable aviation fuels, industrial chemicals and/or bio-based polymers/plastics. Appropriate design of these production methods will result in substantial environmental benefits over the fossil-fuel-based products they replace.
Why was the research conducted, and why is there ongoing interest in unlocking technologies and commercial opportunities?
The work was carried out under the auspices of the Research Chair in Biofuels at Stellenbosch University, as well as through local research collaborations that have an ongoing interest in unlocking new technologies and commercial opportunities in South Africa’s economy. Bioethanol is also under consideration as a potential growth opportunity in the Sugarcane Value Chain Master Plan to 2030.
The national Bio-economy Strategy of South Africa foresees significant opportunities for economic growth and job creation in this sector. These are associated with anticipated social and environmental benefits, including reductions in greenhouse gas emissions in line with the Paris Accord, of which South Africa is a signatory.
How was the research conducted and what findings emerged?
Denne historien er fra August 13, 2021-utgaven av Farmer's Weekly.
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Denne historien er fra August 13, 2021-utgaven av Farmer's Weekly.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
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ARC names best dairy producers of the year
The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) recently announced the winners of the 2024 National Master Dairyman Awards at an event hosted by AgriExpo in Stellenbosch, Western Cape.
Lion breeders to give up bone stockpiles?
The Ministry of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment issued an official notice in mid-November in which it called on lion breeders to voluntarily hand over their lion bone stockpiles to the state as soon as possible.
Thousands of British farmers march on parliament against inheritance tax
Thousands of UK farmers gathered in London, England, on 19 November to demand the government repeal a proposed inheritance tax on agricultural land, which they argued threatened the future of family-run farms (see page 4), Al Jazeera reported.
Avocado frittata with sundried tomatoes, feta and olives
This wholesome, vibrant frittata is perfect for brunch or a light supper. Recipe and photo: The South African Avocado Growers' Association.
Feed, hay, and other costs are up, so it's time to get creative
Breeders and riding schools need to explore innovative ways to generate income in order to ensure their survival, says Dr Mac.
How to make polystyrene seedling trays last longer
While thinking about how to prolong the lifespan of polystyrene seedling trays that are exposed to harsh sunlight, Bill Kerr began to wonder if a coat of paint might offer a solution.
Living the 'culture' in agriculture
Creation Wines has won numerous awards, was ranked fourth in the World’s Best Vineyards in 2023, and more recently won the V d’Or award for the Best Brand Experience. The owners, Carolyn and Jean-Claude Martin, spoke to Glenneis Kriel about how their winery became a top tourism destination.
Time to take a deep breath on the slopes of the Magaliesberg
Around 100km from both Johannesburg and Pretoria in Gauteng and a tad over 40km from Rustenburg in North West, Farmer’s Weekly found a fine retreat on a working farm where couples may kindle their romance.
African penguins could be extinct by 2035 how to save them
Protecting the critically endangered African penguin is good for the environment, other animal species, and the economy, say Lorien Pichegru and Dr Alistair McInnes of Nelson Mandela University, Katrin Ludynia of the University of Cape Town, and Peter Barham of the University of Bristol in the UK.
An urgent need to confront Nassella in SA
South American grass species from the genus Nassella were unwittingly introduced to South Africa over 120 years ago and continue to invade montane veld. As Mike Burgess writes, research-based action is required.
