Ecological Studies For Sustainable Biodiesel Plantations (Jatropha)

Worldwide biofuels attract growing attention to reduce greenhouse gas emission and to reduce dependency on fossil fuels. Jatropha curcas L. is an alternative biofuel crop holding fruits with oil bearing seeds. The oil is extractable with simple techniques and is easily convertible to biodiesel. The current investments and expansion of area under Jatropha show a great interest in its potential. Though it is well suited to marginal soils with low nutrient content, nitrogen and phosphorous fertilization is demanded to get the high yield. The main question is whether large scale Jatropha cultivation is feasible under varied ecological conditions. To solve such question in-depth research is needed. Considering the lack of scientific knowledge and the anticipated future expansion of area under Jatropha, it is the aim of this present book to provide information to evaluate the assumed sustainability of Jatropha cultivation under varied environmental conditions and to contribute to the knowledge on the potential sustainability of Jatropha. This book gives in depth knowledge about the large scale cultivation of Jatropha.