US poised to triple bioenergy production, revolutionizing sustainable energy future.
The US is working on increasing biomass resources for bioenergy and biobased products sustainably. Research is focusing on improving energy crops like poplar, willow, and switchgrass. Genetic programs are enhancing desired traits in these crops. Equilibrium models suggest that millions of hectares of land could be used for energy crops without affecting food supplies. Crop residues could also be collected profitably. This could support a thriving bioenergy industry in the US if local values are considered in energy and environmental policies.