Energy Independence
Energy Independence
Industrial biotechnology experts are leveraging homegrown energy sources and natural resources, forging a path to U.S. energy independence and security.
Biomass
Biomass, made of homegrown biological material like algae, crop residues and switchgrass, is the most globally available and versatile renewable energy asset. Using sunlight and carbon dioxide, biotechnologists are able to increase biomass yields. Once produced, scientists are able to convert biomass into energy, plastics, chemicals, fibers and liquid fuels.
Biofuels
Biotechnology allows us to efficiently and cost-effectively convert biomass into ethanol and other biofuels. New “drop in” biofuel molecules, such as biobutanol and “green gasoline,” can be directly substituted for petroleum-based fuels, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and reducing the U.S. reliance on foreign sources of energy.
Economic Stability
By using homegrown natural resources to produce green energy, the biotechnology industry is helping the U.S. build economic stability. The production of these natural resources and their conversion into value-added manufactured products promotes jobs, economic stability and opportunity all over the country.