Advanced biofuels commercialization barriers and bridges

For decades, the category of Advanced Biofuels has been posturing to earn its mainstream role in the landscape of the biofuels industry.  Yet, commercial demonstrations have only recently emerged to validate the extensive research and development efforts.

Traditional Generation 1 sugar and starch based ethanol has established solid technology, economic and political foundations.

Has the Advanced Biofuels industry adopted a commercial roll-out model that can satisfy the needs of all stakeholders?  Is the research community focused on the breakthroughs that will facilitate commercial competitiveness?  Are new visions and bridges to the future needed?  History teaches that certain economic and technology strategies favor commercial acceptance for an emerging industry.  Should we press forward with evolutionary transition strategies from Generation 1 to Generation 2 biofuels?  Can we learn from history and refocus on building bridges to the future that will “pull” Advanced Biofuels into the mainstream – or will we continue to “push”?