Ecological considerations in the sustainable development of terrestrial biofuel crops

The emerging bioeconomy offers numerous potential benefits, including development of carbon-neutral energy sources, energy independence, production of novel bioproducts, and renewal of rural economies. Aside from the benefits, the emerging bioeconomy is likely to result in the single largest reconfiguration of the agricultural landscape since the advent of industrial agriculture. The scale and pace of this revolution pose significant challenges for sustainable bioeconomic development. We present and explore some of the key ecological and environmental challenges of one aspect of the bioeconomy — biofuel production. In assessing these challenges, we highlight the inadequacy of seeking simplistic solutions. We identify the need for a multidimensional approach to addressing these challenges. We propose that the framework of ‘biocomplexity’ enables such a multidimensional and cross-disciplinary consideration of biofuel production. Integration of such a systems approach to biofuel development, with a more-inclusive public engagement process, would be beneficial within a triple bottom line context.

Research highlights
► Bioeconomy — the largest recent reconfiguration of the industrial agricultural landscape.
► Reconfiguration poses significant challenges for sustainable bioeconomic development.
► Seeking simplistic solutions for these environmental challenges is inadequate.
► A cross-disciplinary systems approach and an inclusive public engagement process is required.
► ‘Biocomplexity’ framework enables a multidimensional consideration of the bioeconomy.