Benefits versus risks of growing biofuel crops: the case of Miscanthus

The giant C4 grasses of the genus Miscanthus holds promise as candidates for the optimal bioenergy crop in the temperate zone with their high yield, cold tolerance, low environmental impact, resistance to pests and diseases, ease of harvesting and handling, and non-invasiveness. The latter is, however, only the case for the triploid and sterile species M. × giganteus, while great caution should be taken with the production of the seed-setting species of the genus. M. sinensis has already spread into nature from ornamental use in several parts of the world, where it is considered a serious invader. Other risks to consider are fire in the mature crop, the spread of pests and diseases and increased water use. These years, the first commercial large scale crop production results are coming through and will show if the promises are to be fulfilled and the risks can be handled. However, breeding, further development of the production chain, and stewardship programmes to avoid potential risks are still needed if Miscanthus is to compete with fossil fuel use and be widely produced.

Research highlights► Miscanthus × giganteus is high yielding, non-invasive, pest and disease resistant & low emission. ► However, seed setting M. sinensis are potentially invasive. ► Other risks are fire, high water use and acting as a vector for diseases in other crops. ► Avenues to counter the risks are proposed.