Business
Jatropha Biofuel
The leafy jatropha tree is emerging as a leading source of biofuel.
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| The leafy jatropha tree, which is found abundantly in India, Africa and Central America, is emerging as a leading source of biofuel. Biodiesel generated from the tree has been tested on Continental Airlines flights and it is widely used in India, Philippines and Brazil, including powering trains between New Delhi and Mumbai.
Now several energy companies, including the oil giant BP, are investing in cultivating jatropha trees, which are estimated to yield two gallons of oil per season. As many as 400 trees can be planted per acre at a cost of around $7 per tree. |
