Cellulosic ethanol: let's think it through first

Scientists recommend a cautious approach to cellulosic ethanol so as to avoid another corn ethanol-like boondoggle:

While allowing that the production of cellulosic feedstocks has some distinct advantages over grain-based fuel manufacture — from less frequent fertilization and improved storage of carbon in the soil to higher overall energy yields — the authors highlight several potential pitfalls:

Some proposed biofuels crops are exotic and others are known to be invasive, which can have further negative influences on local-to-regional biodiversity. Other cellulosic crops may require substantial chemical inputs and irrigation, with the potential for water pollution, nitrous oxide emissions, and, in arid regions, further competition for water. In addition, excessive removal of “waste” residue from annual cropping systems will rob the soil of carbon, increase erosion and reduce soil fertility. Also, excessive forest thinning will reduce long-term forest productivity and wildlife habitat.

Getting an early jump on identifying and heading off the “unintended consequences” associated with the production of cellulosic fuel — through both practice and policy — the scientists say, is the solution.