Sorghum as a versatile feedstock for bioenergy production

Abstract

World economy development, population increase and urban expansion accelerate the depletion of naturally preserved energy (fossil fuels), reduction in arable land and the trend of global climate change. Bioenergy, that is, energy recently produced from materials of living organisms, holds special promise in meeting the growing need for energy while reducing the negative impact of carbon release from burning fossil fuels. Biomass production, water and nitrogen use, tolerance to biotic and abiotic stress, and low soil fertility are critical factors in the selection of ideal bioenergy feedstocks. As a C₄ plant (with a high efficiency of photosynthesis, water use and nitrogen use) capable of surviving hot, semi-arid environment, sorghum may become a versatile bioenergy feedstock. In this article, the unique features of sorghum, available genetic and genomic resources, potentials and challenges as a bioenergy feedstock in the USA and China were reviewed.

Disclaimer

Mention of a trademark or proprietary product does not constitute a guarantee or warranty of the product by the US Department of Agriculture or imply approval to the exclusion of other products that may also be suitable. The US Department of Agriculture is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Acknowledgements

We thank the anonymous reviewers for their constructive suggestions and valuable input.

Financial & competing interests disclosure

The authors are employees of the US Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service. The authors have no other relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript apart from those disclosed.

No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript.