Fontes alternativas para a produção de etanol

Abstract

Introduction: The Industrial Revolution was driven by the discovery of oil, which transformed industrial and technological production. However, the growing demand for fossil fuels has raised concerns about environmental sustainability and the scarcity of these energy sources. Objective: To compare new alternative sources of ethanol. Method: This study is a descriptive review of the literature on the main alternative biomass sources to sugarcane, regarding their technical, economic and environmental feasibility. Results and Discussion: The advancement of technologies, such as second-generation fermentation and genetic engineering of microorganisms, has been fundamental to increasing the efficiency of ethanol production and reducing environmental impacts. In this sense, new alternative raw materials such as corn, beet, oats, rice, barley, wheat, sorghum and others, have been used in several countries as raw materials for ethanol production. Conclusion: The diversification of biomass sources is promising but requires continuous investment in research and public policies that encourage more sustainable agricultural practices. Brazil has great potential to lead the production of sustainable ethanol and thus contribute to the global reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, consolidating its position as an important player in the renewable energy market.