The Impact of Biofuel Production on Food Security: A Briefing Paper with a Particular Emphasis on Maize-to-Ethanol Production

A multi-feedstock approach is crucial for sustainable biofuel production in South Africa. In respect of ethanol production, biofuel producers should be allowed to draw on a range of starch-based crops including maize. A multi-feedstock approach will enable producers to select crops best suited to the agro-climate of the regions where their plants are situated and to minimize logistic costs by sourcing crops grown closest to their plants. In recent months, plans to use maize to produce ethanol have raised concerns that this could jeopardize food security in South Africa.