Project status:		Current
Project period:		01/2008 to 12/2009
Project type:		Biotechnology

 

Description

 

In view of the current discussion on the increased use of biomass for energy generation, there are numerous open questions regarding its technical implementation and cost calculation. Biotechnological energy conversion (bioethanol, biogas) currently plays a central role in this regard. The public perceives this technology as an ecologically valuable method of energy generation and fuel provision that does not produce CO2. High expectations on the part of policy makers and conflicting support programs result in widely varying and even contradictory evaluations of the development of prices and markets and the sustainability of these bioenergy sources.

 

The purpose of this project is to establish which biotechnological developments are feasible and economically viable as a means of increasing the use of plant-based biomass for energy and raw material production, particularly with respect to Germany as a technology-oriented location. What changes to existing education paths and what new courses of study could this give rise to?

 

Project group