The Potential for Eucalyptus Spp. Production in the U.S, Sustainability Considerations

The technical viability of aviation biofuels has been demonstrated and a 29-billion-liter annual market exists, but feedstock price and availability remain a barrier. One potential biofuel feedstock, Eucalyptus spp., can produce an energy-dense terpene suitable for high-density synthetic hydrocarbon-type fuel (grade JP-10) production as well as provide substantial cellulosic-based feedstock for traditional jet fuels (e.g., Jet A aviation turbine fuel). We present on the results of an economic analysis of the potential for eucalyptus to fulfill US biojet and military-grade fuel markets in the near term (20 years) using the Policy Analysis System (POLYSYS). This study will also address the potential sustainability considerations associated with the modeled cold-tolerant variety of eucalyptus in an annual short-rotation woody crop coppice system across the Southeast and Gulf states. Our simulations focused on planting of genetically modified eucalyptus with potential to produce 14.5 dry Mg ha^-1 yr^-1. Total eucalyptus production in primarily the U.S. Gulf States was modeled to potentially produce 51.4 million L yr^-1 JP-10-type fuel, while also allowing 77.3 million L Gas and 75.4 million L JetA from total cellulosic material (woody & spent leaves) under a $110 Mg^-1 scenario within 10 years. Lignin could be used for heat and power in the production process, reducing steam-distillation and other energy costs, or as a soil amendment. The total estimated value of all products is $493.3 million at a feedstock cost (farmgate) of $99.7 million. Applicable sustainability indicators, land use considerations and other variables (e.g., water use) will be explored.