Future food, fiber, and fuel demands cannot be met by expanding cropland; continued advances in nutrient use efficiency will be essential. With a growing population, dwindling arable land, and rising biofuel demand, the world must rely on genetic improvements in crop productivity, soil conservation, and nutrient efficiency rather than expansion of harvested area. This CAST Issue Paper examines the background to current conditions and addresses requirements for world food production over the next 40 years, demonstrating why research in nutrient use, recovery, and recycling is crucial.

A panel of experts has outlined key issues regarding biomass crops by examining the harvest, transportation, and storage of cellulosic material. Task Force Chair Jerry Fruin indicates that successful biomass feedstock production depends on the smooth blending of successful approaches to these three logistical necessities. Citing a number of research activities aimed at providing solutions to specific processes within the feedstock chain, they look at biomass collection, storage, and costs, and then highlight results from studies regarding switchgrass and corncobs.

Concern about rising prices and unstable sources of petroleum fuels is driving the search for U.S. domestically produced, renewable transportation fuels, such as biodiesel, which is developing into a widely accepted alternative fuel. The U.S. biodiesel industry is struggling because of high prices for its feedstocks, vegetable oils, and animal fats. High feedstock prices also are affecting international biodiesel production, but requirements to lower greenhouse gas emissions continue to stimulate interest in the fuel. The authors of this new CAST Commentary explain the biodiesel production process and discuss quality requirements, characteristics of biodiesel, biodiesel economics, and energy balance.

Recent dramatic increases in energy costs are having a direct bearing on all agricultural activities within the United States. This commentary discusses the use of energy in agriculture and the food industry in light of current federal and state policies. Energy production from bio-sources also is addressed.