Even though biofuel is commonly referred to as a liquid fuel derived from plant matter and waste, there are other solid versions that might be even better recognized by people. An example of a liquid fuel would be a biodiesel fuel and bioalcohol, whereas a solid biofuel would be for example, grass cuttings and wood and sawdust. Both versions work in the same way by creating a heat source, either by burning directly (solid) or indirectly through an engine (liquid).

Liquid biofuels such as biodiesel fuels come into play more and more as people become more aware of the environment and the effects of Global Warming. Cars that run on regular petroleum diesel or gasoline give out gases which are harmful to the ozone layer, causing irreparable damage to the protective barrier between space and earth. With the progression of the manufacturing process of liquid biofuels, there are more opportunities for consumers to switch. With more vehicles using liquid biofuels the destructive emissions are less and the process of Global Warming can be slowed down.

However, older versions of biofuels have been in existence since time began. Grass cutting, wood, and sawdust are all readily available natural sources, and can very easily be turned into an alternative solid fuel source by compression of the mass into pellet which can then be burned. While these products will burn without being compressed, the compressed versions last longer and give off a more prolonged heat. Unfortunately, while these forms of solid fuel are more readily available, they are not as eco-friendly as biodiesel fuels and in most instances will give off noxious pollutants which are then released into the air. This can obviously cause its own damage to the ozone.

It has been said though, that liquid biofuels such as biodiesel fuels are not always the best thing due to the conversion process being so inefficient. Liquid biofuels being used in internal combustion (diesel) engines can be equally as inefficient, although there are numerous arguments for and against. According to studies taken, corn-based liquid biofuels are beaten by their solid counterparts when produced from energy crops of the 2^nd generation. Reportedly being 570% more efficient than liquid fuels such as, solid biofuels are being raved about in countries like Canada where there is a definite calling for more solid fuels to be put into operation. There are however, no subsidies for solid biofuels in Canada; a fact that those pushing for more solid biofuel developments are trying to overcome.

There always have been and always will be negative and positive factors when deciding which biofuel to use. Some say that a solid biofuel such as wood should be used because it is a “natural” product and therefore can’t cause that much damage. Others will say that a liquid biofuel such as biodiesel fuel is the way forward and that progression should be made to find ways to lessen the financial and environmental cost. Whatever version people decide to use, it looks like biofuel is here to stay, in its solid and liquid form.