The world’s demand for renewable energy is growing, resulting in an increased need to convert biomass to biofuel. While this demand has a positive impact on lowering fossil fuel consumption, bioenergy crop cultivation can have significant environmental impacts. This study, performed by researchers at the University of Texas at El Paso, uses a variety of methods to evaluate the impact of cultivation on erosion, greenhouse gas emissions, water quality, and water demand. Ultimately, the study finds the optimal method for biomass production that minimizes its environmental effects on water and land.
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