Switchgrass as Model Crop for Biofuel Production
摘要
Global food security and bioenergy production with sustainable developments are two pivotal necessities of the present time and crucial for future generations. As the global population expanded, the necessity for both food and energy also augmented. For this, we need alternate crops and model crops to increase bioenergy production in sustainable ways. Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) has emerged as a promising candidate for biofuel production due to its high biomass yield, efficient resource use efficiency, and numerous environmental services. This chapter compiles the potential of switchgrass as a bioenergy feedstock, focusing on its advantages over other second-generation bioenergy crops. As a perennial nature, switchgrass requires less frequent planting and minimal inputs, reducing agricultural costs and environmental impact. Its robust root system enhances nutrient uptake and transport efficiency and reduces erosion, while its high lignocellulosic content makes it perfect for conversion into ethanol and other biofuels. This overview underscores switchgrass’s role in advancing biofuel technology and supporting a transition toward greener energy systems.