The Production and Utilization of Lignocellulose

Many poorer countries depend for energy and chemicals for development upon renewable resources. Biotechnology has a part to play in improving production of biomass and in possible processes for its conversion to fuels and chemical feedstocks. Economic, political, social, and environmental considerations as well as scientific and technological advances will determine how much progress is made. Although there is a diversity of materials, ranging from wood and sugarcane bagasse to municipal solid waste and animal waste, there are some unifying features. There is the need to understand the biological attack of lignin and of crystalline cellulose and the design of processes such as solid-substrate fermentations that would be applicable to developing countries.