Flower power: prospects for photosynthetic energy

The possibility is investigated to utilize for the satisfaction of human energy requirements the solar energy which is stored in plants in connection with the photosynthesis process. It is pointed out that in the United States photosynthetic production on land is roughly comparable to total energy consumption. Approaches are examined for converting the plant biomass into suitable fuels, taking into account the formation of methane in biogasification and a production of methanol via pyrolysis. Aspects of the large-scale production of biomass are discussed. An important criterion in a selection of suitable land areas is related to the availability of sufficient water. Attention is also given to marine systems and the utilization of organic waste resources.