Second-Generation Biofuels: Concepts, Applications, and Challenges

For the last two decades, the escalating demands and subsequent depletion of fossil fuels have led to the search for suitable alternatives. A potential solution to the limitation of fossil fuels is “Biofuel.” Biofuels are referred to as fuels that are derived from biological substances like crops, microorganisms, wood, waste matter, etc. First-generation biofuels were the first category of biofuels discovered which incorporated the use of biomass from crops like corn, Jatropha, cooking oils, etc. First-generation biofuels were less successful due to the issues of stock feeding, poor crop quality, and feeding world hunger because they relied on food crops. The production of second-generation biofuel was a need-based alternative that relied on non-food crops, forest waste, and crop waste for fuel production. Second-generation biofuels have a more sustainable approach and are more favored as compared to first-generation biofuels. The present review highlights the shortfalls of first-generation biofuels, production, uses, and advantages of second-generation biofuels.