CfSEF Mission

The Center’s mission is to perform cutting-edge plant science research in genetics, breeding and horticulture, and further develop technologies to allow for the economic commercialization and sustainability of energy farms globally.

Research at the Center will be focused on increased agricultural production, creating a sustainable energy supply, reducing the use of pesticides, water and fertilizer, and developing new and sustainable biofuels.

Sustainability is dependent upon the philosophy that the Center will not sacrifice its future for short-term benefits - a key attribute of the Center's P3 (People, Planet, Profit) philosophy. CfSEF will assert this policy through responsible Stewardship of Natural and Human Resources.

The Center is a proud member of the American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE).

     

• Jatropha curcas is a perennial oil-bearing shrub or small tree
  

• Jatropha originates from Central America and is known today in many countries throughout the tropics

• The plant is drought resistant and survives with an annual precipitation of as little as 300 mm

• Traditionally, it has been used as “living fences” in developing countries in Central America and Africa, and for the production of soap and medicine

• It produces seeds that contain approximately 30-35% of non-edible oil
  
  
• Jatropha yields high-quality oil, which is well suited for use in the transportation and energy sector

• The plant has a high-yield potential of more than 2 tons of oil/hectare/year

• The oil can be used locally to fuel vehicles, diesel generators, lamps and/or cooking stoves

• The oil can be used as a replacement fuel for anything that a petroleum source can power.  In this year’s Green Air Show, the talk centered on the low-sulfur fuel, which can be burned by jets without modifying the engine or distribution system