Press release: Training course on Next Generation Biofuels: Development of sustainable chemical processes for production of biofuels and bio-based chemicals from agricultural waste and non-food biomass

The International Centre for Science and High Technology (ICS), located in Trieste, Italy, and operating under the aegis of the United Nation Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), has organised a training course on Next Generation Biofuels: Development of sustainable chemical processes for production of biofuels and bio-based chemicals from agricultural waste and non-food biomass, on 14-18 September 2009, at Villa Gandolfi Pallavicini in Bologna, Italy.  The event was organised in co-operation with the University of Bologna, Italy, with support from the EU FP7 project CHRISGAS.

There is a considerable interest in many developing countries and countries in economic transition (in Africa, Asia, CEE, NIS, and Latin America) to exploit in an efficient and sustainable way the available bio-resources, especially agricultural waste, as well as innovative non-food bio-feedstock, e.g. microalgae.  A new chemical industry aimed at biomass conversion into biofuels and bio-based chemicals within the biorefinery concept is the key to poverty reduction and energy security of these countries.  It also helps solving serious environmental problems, such as global CO2 reduction and local waste management.  Related R&D and education on the basic issues of chemistry, technology and sustainability in biofuel production are vital for building the necessary capacity in these countries.

Within its core programme on next generation biofuels, ICS-UNIDO has established long-term co-operation relationships with several leading research institutions in Indonesia, India, Malaysia, Ghana, Russia, China, Argentina, Brazil, etc. in the field of biofuels and bio-hydrogen production via chemical catalytic and biochemical enzymatic methods.  In the framework of its research programme, ICS-UNIDO also offers international fellowships to young scientists from developing countries who participate in the ongoing research activities.

The goal of this training course was to teach young scientists and technologists from the developing world on the state-of-the-art and recent progress in the theory and applications of chemistry, catalysis and biotechnology for production of new sustainable biofuels and bio-based chemicals.  The course offered a unique environment for training in the international context with the benefit of communication and exchange of experience and knowledge between lecturers and students from different social and economic realities.  The joint organisation of the event with the University of Bologna enabled the extended participation of PhD students from EU and of world recognised experts in thermochemical, catalytic, and enzymatic methods for the production of next generation biofuels.