Policies for second generation biofuels: Current status and future challenges

Abstract

This report reviews the current status of second generation biofuels. First generation biofuels continue to be substantially subsidized, and this has contributed to the increasing use of such fuel. However, recent studies claim that the future of biofuels lies in second generation biofuels, in particular biochemical ethanol made from cellulose. Thus, in this report we ask the following three questions: How far is second generation biofuels from being a competitive GHG abatement technology? Is it likely that first generation biofuels will bridge the development of second generation biofuels? Should trade policy be used to protect domestic infant second generation biofuels industry from import of low cost first generation biofuels from developing countries?