Journal of Energy Bioscience 2024, Vol.15, No.2, 60-71 http://bioscipublisher.com/index.php/jeb 68 spontaneum and Miscanthus could expand sugarcane cultivation to temperate zones, thus increasing the geographical range of production (Lam et al., 2009). Additionally, the development of breeder-friendly DNA markers associated with desirable traits can enhance selection efficiency and shorten breeding cycles. 8.2 Emerging technologies in ethanol production Emerging technologies in ethanol production focus on optimizing the use of sugarcane biomass and improving conversion efficiencies. Second-generation (2G) ethanol production, which utilizes lignocellulosic biomass such as bagasse and cane trash, presents a significant opportunity for increasing ethanol output without expanding agricultural land (Khatiwada et al., 2016; Ungureanu et al., 2022). Innovative cascading processes that valorize sugarcane residues into bioplastics, bio-fertilizers, and biogas can further enhance the sustainability and economic viability of sugarcane biorefineries (Formann et al., 2020). Moreover, advancements in genetic engineering and enzyme technology are expected to accelerate the fermentation process, making ethanol production more efficient (Talukdar et al., 2017). 8.3 Predictions for future market trends and demands The global demand for renewable energy sources is expected to drive the expansion of sugarcane ethanol production. Studies predict that Brazilian sugarcane ethanol could displace up to 13% of global crude oil consumption by 2045, significantly reducing CO2 emissions (Jaiswal et al., 2017). The potential for geographical expansion and productivity gains in sugarcane cultivation suggests that ethanol could replace a substantial portion of global gasoline consumption before second-generation technologies become fully competitive (Goldemberg and Guardabassi, 2010). However, market trends will also be influenced by factors such as biofuel support policies, carbon taxes, and energy prices (Khatiwada et al., 2016). 8.4 Key areas for further research and development Key areas for further research and development include improving the sustainability of large-scale ethanol production and addressing environmental concerns. Research should focus on minimizing the negative impacts of sugarcane cultivation, such as soil erosion, water usage, and CO2 emissions (Pereira and Ortega, 2010). Additionally, the development of sustainable waste management practices for by-products like vinasse, bagasse ash, and filter cake is essential for reducing environmental risks and enhancing the circular bioeconomy (Formann et al., 2020; Ungureanu et al., 2022). Further studies on the socio-economic impacts of expanding sugarcane ethanol production, particularly in developing countries, are also necessary to ensure that the benefits are equitably distributed (Talukdar et al., 2017). By addressing these research directions, the sugarcane ethanol industry can continue to grow sustainably, meeting future energy demands while minimizing environmental impacts. 9 Concluding Remarks The research on the application of sugarcane in ethanol fuel production has revealed several critical insights. Firstly, sugarcane biorefineries in Brazil have demonstrated the potential to optimize the use of sugarcane biomass, particularly bagasse and cane trash, for both electricity and second-generation (2G) ethanol production. This optimization is influenced by factors such as energy prices, biofuel support, and carbon tax. Additionally, Brazilian sugarcane ethanol has been identified as a scalable solution to reduce CO2 emissions, with the potential to displace up to 13% of global crude oil consumption by 2045 while balancing forest conservation and food production demands. Sugarcane's high biomass production capacity and favorable energy input/output ratio make it an excellent feedstock for biofuel production. Genetic improvements in sugarcane varieties could further enhance biomass degradability and ethanol yield. The sustainability of ethanol production from sugarcane is also notable, with significant reductions in CO2 emissions and improvements in air quality, although concerns about land use and environmental impacts remain. Moreover, the integration of sugarcane mills with microalgae biorefineries under the RenovaBio program could further improve the sustainability and economic feasibility of ethanol production.
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