Biofuels Investment 2020

Where is biofuels investment in 2020? According to the IEA (2020), biofuels investment fell to its lowest level in a decade in 2019. The Paris Agreement calls to limit the rise in global temperatures.  Advanced liquid biofuels play a major role in meeting that goal.   Global production of liquid biofuels is currently around 130 billion liters yearly. While electric autos are making some significant headway into the auto market, freight, shipping, and aviation currently have no such viable electric options and account for over 12% of total global energy-related CO₂ emissions. The International Renewable Energy Agency notes that to conform to Paris Agreement standards, the biofuels market needs to triple to more than 370 billion liters annually and need to increase five-fold to 650 billion liters annually by 2050.

Why is this not happening? It appears that the lack of stable regulations for the use of liquid biofuels represents a major roadblock.  It appears that many governments tend to exercise narrow vision, viewing the cost of biofuels versus petroleum in near term.  As petroleum rises, and it will, voters at the pump will be asking why there was no longer-term planning.  We know technology development is down, as evidenced by a significant drop in patent filings.  If we are to stabilize the plant, these things need to change, starting with longer term thinking by all governments.  If COVID 19 has taught us any important lessons, one would certainly be that absent human pollution, the planet has an incredible resilience.  It is time for everyone to recognize the real problems and to act.  Our future generations depend on us. The bottom line?  “Projects are like fires.  They go out when unattended!” 

Lee Enterprises Consulting is the world’s premier bioeconomy consulting group, with over 150 highly qualified experts serving in all these areas.  Look at our experts and the services we provide.  Most of our experts are also available to advise and serve as expert witnesses in bioeconomy litigation matters.  For the larger projects, we specialize in putting together full service, interdisciplinary teams with one point of contact.  See video about LEC here.  Call us at 1+ (501) 833-8511 or email us for more information. See:  The Changing Nature of the Bioeconomy: Its Changing Nature and Biofuels Overview.