Biofuels and Sustainability: Holistic Perspectives for Policy-making Softcover reprint of the original 1st ed. 2018 Edition

This open access book presents a comprehensive analysis of biofuel use strategies from an interdisciplinary perspective using sustainability science. This interdisciplinary perspective (social science-natural science) means that the strategies and policy options proposed will have significant impacts on the economy and society alike. Biofuels are expected to contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, revitalizing economies in agricultural communities and alleviating poverty. However, despite these anticipated benefits, international organizations such as the FAO, OECD and UN have published reports expressing concerns that biofuel promotion may lead to deforestation, water pollution and water shortages. The impacts of biofuel use are extensive, cross-sectoral and complex, and as such, comprehensive analyses are required in order to assess the extent to which biofuels can contribute to sustainable societies.

Applying interdisciplinary sustainability scienceconcepts and methodologies, the book helps to enhance the establishment of a sustainable society as well as the development of appropriate responses to a global need for urgent action on current issues related to biofuels.

Kazuhiko Takeuchi
The University of Tokyo
Tokyo, Japan
Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES)
Kanagawa, Japan

Hideaki Shiroyama
The University of Tokyo
Tokyo, Japan

Osamu Saito
United Nations University
Tokyo, Japan

Masahiro Matsuura
The University of Tokyo
Tokyo, Japan