Miscanthus Shows Great Potential as Ethanol Feedstock

Trials by Illinois researchers indicate the perennial grass known as Miscanthus could produce 2.5 times more biofuel energy per acre as compared to corn. This is with much less fertilization and erosion as compared to corn cropping. The variety used is sterile, and invasion of nearby fields has not been a problem in European and U.S. trials. Breeding for increased biomass could raise yields still more. Higher yields per acre will allow for shorter transportation distance for biomass to the biorefineries. This perennial grass will grow on marginal soils and actually improve soil fertility and carbon content over time. That's why long-term rotations with these grasses could actually improve food production over time. Land previously marginal for food production could be better for food production after a number of years in grass.
Miscanthus Shows Great Potential as Ethanol Feedstock