A new study, exploring the potential of the next generation of biofuels to provide more economic, low-carbon fuel for cars and other forms of transport, has been launched today (16 October 2006 ) by the Royal Society, the UK national academy of science.

The study will look at how scientific developments could address some of the problems associated with biofuels currently on the market, such as biodiesel, which is derived from soya or rapeseed, and bioethanol, which is made form wheat or sugar beet. 

Innovative technologies, such as the use of different parts of food crops for conversion into biofuel, would reduce pressure on the land and lessen the competition between food crops and energy crops. Advances in science could also increase and improve the efficiency of the production process, for example, by improving the fermentation of the crops to produce bio-ethanol.

Professor John Pickett, chair of the Royal Society biofuels working group, said: "Transport was responsible for over 23 per cent of the UK's total carbon dioxide emissions in 2004. Biofuels can offer part of the solution in tackling climate change, but we need to look at both their potential, including what kind of total emissions savings they could deliver, and also any potentially negative issues associated with their development.

"We aim to identify where the scientific breakthroughs are likely to emerge as well as identifying barriers to the further development of biofuels, such as converting existing technology to use the new fuels. We will also be looking at how incentives can be put in place to encourage the research effort and ensure that the UK is at the forefront of biofuels development internationally.

"There is a huge amount of excitement around these fuels. The Government has, for example, made a commitment that 5 per cent of all fuels used for road vehicles should come from biofuels by 2010.

"Our study will investigate what could realistically be achieved in terms of cost, yield and environmental impacts, particularly in relation to minimising greenhouse gas emissions."

The working group is expected to report on its findings in autumn 2007.