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Page 1 of 2 Based on recent data analysis published in the Human Development Report (2007-2008) of the United Nations Development Programme, the Philippines ranked sixth in the list of countries with the largest volumes of carbon dioxide emission.
 According to the said report, the Philippines was able to emit a total of 80.5 metric tons of carbon dioxide. This corresponds to a 0.3% contribution to the total emissions in the whole world. The report likewise states that these figures on carbon dioxide emissions are constantly increasing. In fact, the annual change in the total carbon dioxide emissions is calculated at 5.9%. Of course, these figures are still very far from those of the United States and China, the two countries occupying the top two slots in the list. However, do we still have to wait for this matter to get worse?
In order to counteract this growing concern, Filipinos are called to cooperate and to contribute whatever they can to the betterment of the environment. This is done by utilizing renewable energy sources and alternative fuel like biofuels.
As previously posted here at BiofuelsHub, the use of biofuels or ethanol-blended gasoline is commendable because it not only helps in promoting good health and in protecting the environment; it is also a contributing factor to the sustainability of the country.
Ethanol refers to the additive that is mixed with regular gasoline to produce the ethanol-blended gasoline. At present, E10 or the 10% ethanol blend is widely known in the Philippines. Ethanol can be produced from a wide array of feedstock. Feedstock may be in the form of agricultural crops like sugarcane, corn, and others. Of late, the name “biomass” has also surfaced as a potential feedstock for ethanol.
What is biomass?
The term “biomass” refers to a renewable energy source which is either living or recently dead biological material. It can be used as both an alternative fuel and for industrial production. In terms of biofuels, biomass like dead trees, branches, yard clippings, and wood chips are processed to serve as feedstock for ethanol and biofuel production. By far, biomass is the largest renewable source of energy not only here in the Philippines but in other countries as well.
The Advantages of Biomass
The use of biomass feedstock is advantageous because it provides the Philippines an opportunity to achieve an energy future that is sustainable and secure.
• Sustainable – As mentioned, biomass are natural materials that can be found in the forest or agricultural lands. As such, this means that they are readily available. Also, forest and agricultural lands are likely to yield dead organic materials everyday which makes the supply sustainable.
• Security – Since the supply and sources of biomass are sustainable then it provides energy security. Consumers and power companies alike are assured of continuous supply of energy. As mentioned, biomass production is also more affordable, thus, giving producers and consumers alike the protection from drastic price increases and fluctuations. Also, it helps in addressing issues on food shortages and price hikes since biomass is a non-edible feedstock. Again, this means that biomass is not prone to price volatility.
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