This project places strong emphasis on multidisciplinary research and education on issues related to materials use in the environment spanning the entire energy production chain - feedstock analysis, processing technology, and delivery to the consumer.

Many factors come under consideration: determining the best processing conditions for conversion to biofuel; optimum distance from feedstock to refinery; environmental impacts; total economic costs, forest resource availability, avian biodiversity, bioprocess engineering, transportation logistics, and regional input-output economic analyses.

Additionally, the success of a revolutionary new energy system depends on public understanding and social policy. 

This project investigates the technological, ecological, social, economic, and political issues associated with using wood and grass-based ethanol products in emerging biofuel industries.