Modified genes 'could enhance biofuel composition'

Gene modification is not having the positive effect that it could on biofuel composition due to tight regulations regarding its use, according to Oregon State University.

Scientists at the academic institution claim that there are a number of ways in which biofuel composition might be enhanced by using genetically modified crops.

They include the ability to convert the raw biomass into a liquid fuel form more easily, cutting down on water and fertiliser use in the growing process and generally making the fuel crops more resilient to stress.

Steve Strauss, distinguished professor of forest biotechnology at the university, says: "It's extraordinary that gene modification technology which has been adapted more rapidly than any other technology in the history of agriculture ... has been regulated virtually out of existence for perennial cellulosic biofuels crops."

He is now calling for regulatory reform to help overcome the obstacles in place to the use of genetically modified crops as a fuel source, adding that doing so may also help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Within the UK, the Health and Safety Executive inspects premises where genetically modified organisms are used in a controlled manner.

This includes laboratories and plant growth houses where a barrier - whether physical, biological or chemical - is used to keep humans at a distance from genetically modified organisms.