Production of second-generation bioethanol in the Russian Federation in the context of global trends

Abstract

Aim. The presented study aims to identify trends in the production and use of second-generation bioethanol in foreign countries and to assess the potential for the development of production and use of second-generation bioethanol in the Russian Federation.Tasks. The author describes the current level of development of the global biofuel industry; identifies the specific features of the production and use of second-generation bioethanol in foreign countries; summarizes the experience of government support for the production and use of second-generation bioethanol in foreign countries; analyzes the current level and development potential of bioethanol production in Russia.Methods. This study uses the methods of system analysis and comparative analysis, as well as statistical, mathematical, and graphical methods of providing information.Results. Current production volumes of second-generation bioethanol in the world and in Russia are assessed; the peculiarities of government regulation of the production and use of secondgeneration bioethanol in the European Union (EU), Brazil, the US, and China are identified; the economic efficiency of gasoline and second-generation bioethanol production in Russia is compared; recommendations on the use of government support measures in the Russian biofuel industry are formulated.Conclusions. Even though global production and use of second-generation bioethanol currently amounts to a total of 65–125 million liters, mechanisms of government support for this area are systematically applied in many countries. This is due to the desire to decarbonize the transport sector without adversely affecting food security and natural ecosystems. The development of the production and use of second-generation bioethanol in Russia requires similar mechanisms of government support, and it can be relevant in the context of the need to achieve goals in the field of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.