The bio-based economy - plant protection considerations with expanding non-food cropping

摘要

There is a growing commercial interest in use of plant-derived feedstocks for energy and other industrial uses. This is being driven by a number of political and commercial drivers. The gradual increase in oil price since the late 1990's from around 15-20 dollar/barrel to current levels of around 70-80 dollar/barrel has significantly shifted cost differentials between fossil-derived and plant-derived technologies. Given that around 90% of oil is used, in one form or another, as an energy source, there is particular interest in utilisation of alternative and renewable fuel technologies; including those utilising plant-derived feedstocks; to try and diversify sources of energy supplies, reduce reliance on imports and control energy costs. These alternative technologies can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, stimulate rural economies and provide export markets for developing nations.