Biorefinery strategy for production of bioethanol and high value biomolecules from agricultural waste materials

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Conventional energy resources (coal, natural gas, oil) which account for more than 50-80% of total world energy demand are rapidly depleting and the cost of energy is increasing. Utilization of bio-based raw materials for the production of bioethanol can meet the surge in energy demand and play a major role in Canada's climate change strategy. In order to lower GHG emissions, the automotive industry, which produces >25% of all greenhouse gas emissions, warrants the use of at least 10% ethanol blends (E10). The Renewed National Biomass Ethanol Program has set a target to increase Canada's ethanol production capacity by 750 million litres (triple of current capacity) enabling as much as 25% of Canada's total gasoline supply to contain 10% ethanol (E10) by 2010. However, the existing technology is inefficient and substrate supply (use of the food crops) is not sustainable as the cost of substrate accounts for 70-80% of the total bioethanol production cost. Current bioethanol production systems are in competition with food supply and have reduced food security and raised food prices worldwide as reported recently by the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO). Demand for food will double by 2050 and climate change will cause reduction in agricultural productivity and limit food resources. Thus, utilization of low cost alternative raw materials and screening for efficient lytic enzymes and ethanol producer microorganisms are important keystones that need to be adequately addressed. The long term objective of this project is to develop a biorefinery strategy for the production of bioethanol and high value molecules from fruit and potato processing wastes. The work consists of characterizing the waste streams, developing pre-treatment, hydrolysis, extraction, fermentation and separation techniques. The project will contribute to the socio-economic development of Canada, enhance the economics of bioethanol industry and accelerate carbon sequestration. Highly qualified personnel (graduate and undergraduate students) will be trained in the fields of bioenergy and biotechnology.