Jatropha Plantation Zoning As Fedstock For Biofuel Production Within A Sustainability Framework In Ecuador, Case Study In Manabi Province

Abstract

Latin American countries must not allow feedstock plantations with energy ends in forests, nature reserves, protected areas and other where biodiversity could be affected. In this regard, food safety, the soils vocation, water availability and non-use of productive land, are basic considerations that should guide decisions on the implementation of energy crops. Jatropha curcas L. grows in subtropical conditions, can withstand severe drought and low soil fertility.1 Because its ability to grow in poor soils, it can help land reclamation and restoration of eroded areas. Moreover, since it is not a food or forage crop. The main objective of this study was to determine potentially suitable areas for growing Jatropha in order to produce biofuel for energy generation within a sustainability framework in Manabi province in Ecuador. In this regard there were established agroclimatic conditions for producing Jatropha without affecting food sovereignty and avoiding ecologically sensible areas. Through the use of geographic information systems, there were identified 50.220,13 hectares in Manabi province inside the proposed framework. Within the defined areas it was plotted a map of human settlements determining five agricultural communities present inside them. Finally, through the application of in situ surveys, it was constructed a ranking list of communities according their suitability for implement a Jatropha development project.