Using Microbes to make Biofuels
Juan L. Ramos, Ben Pakuts, Patricia Godoy, Ana García-Franco & Estrella Duque
Grandad: When we visited our relatives during the spring vacation, I saw a sticker on the airplane that said ‘sustainable biofuel’. What is biofuel and is it good for the environment?
Much of the energy powering our lives comes from non-renewable fossil fuels like coal, natural gas, and petroleum. These sources are depleting and pollute air, water, and soil, while their extraction and use contribute significantly to global warming. Transitioning to clean, renewable energy is essential for a sustainable future.
Microbes can produce biofuels from plant materials, offering renewable alternatives to fossil fuels. Expanding the biofuel industry can reduce carbon footprints and create quality rural jobs. While bioethanol and biodiesel are already available, advancements are paving the way for more sophisticated fuels.