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Jatropha Curcas is
a native shrub to Central America and the Caribbean, referred
to as "physic nut" or "piñon," now has
international acclaim as the Cinderella Plant of Biodiesel for its
environmental, social and economic potential.
Jatropha grows on degraded
soils and presents an attractive option for farmers looking to reclaim
over-used, nutrient-drained pastures. Jatropha acts as a green manure
and restores nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium and organic matter
to the soil. Its vertical tap root penetrates 2-3 meters deep, loosening
compacted soil, aiding aeration and adding moisture content. The
tap root also makes the plant stable against hurricanes and resistant
to drought in the dry season. Jatropha does not require irrigation,
fertilizer or agrochemicals, with only seasonal pruning and harvesting
as maintenance. The simplicity of the agronomy makes Jatropha a
good candidate for rural community projects.
Jatropha is not edible
and therefore its use as an energy fuel does not affect the world
food supply in the way that biofuels such as corn, soy, and palm
oil might.
When the nut from the
Jatropha fruit is crushed, it produces a high grade oil which can
be used as crude oil or as a mix with petro-diesel and placed into
diesel motors without a decline in the efficiency of the motor.
Tropical Studies Development
Foundation (TSDF) will help Belize make bio-energy a cost
saving reality.
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