Bio-Ethanol Production in Brazil

摘要: In this chapter the history and origin of Brazilian program for bioethanol production (ProAlcool) from sugarcane (Saccharum sp.) are described. Sugarcane today covers approximately 7 Mha, with 357 operating cane mills/ distilleries. The mean yield is 76.6 Mg ha-1 almost half national dedicated to ethanol production, remainder sugar other comestibles. 6280 L ha-1. An evaluation environmental impact reported, especial emphasis on a detailed transparent assessment energy balance greenhouse gas (CO2, N2O, CH4) emissions. It was estimated that (the ratio total in biofuel fossil invested its manufacture) 9.0, use fuel average car powered by FlexFuel motor would incur an economy 73% emissions per km travelled compared gasohol. Other aspects not so positive. Air pollution due pre-harvest burning can have serious effects children elderly people when conditions especially dry. However, gradually being phased out introduction mechanised green-cane harvesting. Water problem early but return distillery waste (vinasse) effluents field now virtually eliminated problem. Soil erosion be severe sloping land susceptible soils no-till techniques harvesting situation slowly improving. distribution industry shows reserves biodiversity such as Amazonia threatened expansion while there may no great advantages rural poor, idea it will create food shortages belied huge area Brazil planted. Working cutters severe, inhuman, shortage men (and women) perform task wages employment benefits considerably more favourable than majority workers. future bring increased efficiency, mechanisation harvest, lower along reduction number unskilled workers employed increase skilled. This only considerable economic benefit Brazil, also play small significant global role mitigation vehicles atmosphere planet.