How will cellulosic ethanol production and use impact the environment?
When fossil fuels are consumed, carbon sequestered from the global carbon cycle for millions of years is released into the atmosphere, where it accumulates. Biofuel consumption can release considerably less CO2, depending on how it is produced. The photosynthetic production of new generations of biomass takes up the CO2 released from biofuel production and use. Life-cycle analysis at Argonne National Laboratory shows CO2 emissions from cellulosic ethanol to be 85% lower than those from gasoline. See the brochure Ethanol: The Complete Energy Lifecycle Picture (PDF) for more information on this analysis. Sequestration of CO2 produced during ethanol fermentation could result in greater reductions of emissions. Perennial grasses and other bioenergy crops have many significant environmental benefits over traditional row crops. Perennial energy crops provide a better environment for more-diverse wildlife habitation. Their extensive root systems increase nutrient capture, improve soil quality
