Biofuels in the Greater Mekong Subregion

Date: January 2012
Type: Papers and Briefs
Country:
Subject:
Agriculture and natural resources; Energy; Environment
Series: Southeast Asia Working Papers

Description

In the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS), a growing demand for biofuels could help support the agriculture sector and provide an alternative source of energy. However, if deployed unsustainably, biofuels development can be associated with numerous risks that have negative ramifications for human development. This paper reviews existing literature and integrates various themes to provide an overview of four main issues related to biofuels deployment in the GMS: the need for alternative energy, risks to food security, considerations for environmental management, and opportunities for rural development. This paper was prepared as a discussion piece for the GMS 2020 International Conference (20–21 February 2012 in Bangkok, Thailand).

Contents

  • Abstract
  • Introduction
  • Energy Demand, Supply, and Security in the Greater Mekong Subregion - the Need for Alternatives
  • Current Development and Potential Production of Biofuels in the Greater Mekong Subregion
  • Overview of Sustainability Issues Related to Biofuels Deployment
  • Discussion: How Can Biofuels Be Sustainably Deployed in the Greater Mekong Subregion?
  • Conclusion
  • References