GAVE
Climate neutral gaseous and liquid energy carriers
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GAVE is a government programme that supports the development and introduction of climate-neutral fuels in the Dutch transport sector.
The programme's most important task is to support the implementation of the European Renewable Energy Directive into Dutch national legislation with respect to biofuels.
This EU Directive states that, by the year 2020, 10% of the energy used in the transport sector must be derived from renewable energy.
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| GAVE news |
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Higher sugar levels in plants now possible
Date published: Jan 29, 2010 |
Researchers have now found a way to increase the storage of fermentable sugars in plants. Biomass with a high sugar level is easier to use as a raw material for biofuels. Scientists at Cambridge University are trying to find ways to improve the fermentation process. The final goal is to optimise energy conversion. In order to achieve this, they are focusing on the way in which sugars are released through the cell walls of the plant.
The plant Arabidopsis forms the main focus of this research - this is one of the herby plants of the cabbage family. Scientists view this type as a model organism for the genetic and molecular biology of plants. It is the first plant type ever to have its complete genome mapped.
The researchers have discovered three enzymes that are responsible for producing Glucomannan - these are polysacharides or carbohydrates that fuel the plant. This study has shown that the amount of Glucomannan in the stalk can be increased or decreased without visible negative effects to the development of plants or the strength of the cell walls. However, researchers discovered that changes to Glucomannan levels have a negative effect on seed production.
This discovery could result in improved energy crops. Researchers expect that, in time, this could lead to cheaper production of biofuels.
Source: EurekAlert |
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