Sun Biofuels Ltd is a UK based biofuels company involved in production, processing and marketing of biofuels in the developing world with minimal impact on the environment while bringing a high level of employment to disadvantaged communities. Sun Biofuels has selected Jatropha curcas L. as the preferred feedstock for biofuel production to avoid the use of agricultural crops as a source of fuel. Currently, SBF is actively involved in establishment of Jatropha plantations in Ethiopia, Tanzania and Mozambique, with interest to expand its operations to other African countries. In addition to creating high level of employment in its plantations, SBF is also working to set up small holder out-grower’s schemes. SBF projects operate on strict ecological and environmental principles based on thorough environmental impact assessments. SBF works closely with national environmental regulatory bodies, and aims to use environmentally benign technologies.

Sun Biofuels is committed to innovative R&D to achieve its goal of becoming a leading biofuels producer globally. R&D is crucial to SBF business because large scale production of Jatropha curcas is previously untested.  The abilities to optimize both seed and oil yields will increase productivity resulting in a more economically successful enterprise. SBF’s research strategy, which is driven by its development principles, allows to grow its business confidently and to maintain a competitive edge. SBF has an experienced R&D team consisting of scientists from both soil and crop science sectors. Currently field research trials of Jatropha curcas have been established in Ethiopia, Tanzania and Mozambique.

Current trials in progress include: germplasm selection and propagation, provenance testing, site preparation techniques, soil nutrition and fertilization, nursery propagation techniques for commercialization, planting density and growth-site interaction, pest and disease management, assessment of seed yield, quality and oil characteristics and development of a site/yield model. SBF believes in sharing information for the common goal of alleviating global fuel crisis in an environmental friendly manner. 

Speaker Profile
Dr Gindaba has a PhD in forest science at Stellenbosch University. He studied the water and nutrient relations of deciduous and evergreen trees. As a postdoctoral associate, he investigated the eco-physiological impacts of climate ameliorating technologies used to control environmental stresses in fruit tree orchards. In 2007, he has been appointed as a Crop Scientist at Sun Biofuels to coordinate R&D. He is currently running various research trials including germplasm selection, establishment, fertigation and water relations of Jatropha curcas L. 

JatrophaWorld 2008 Hamburg Speaker
Day 2 - Tuesday, October 21
14:00  CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES IN AFRICA

Overview of presentation
The presentation highlights the fact that Jatropha curcas L, is among the best biofuel feedstock. However, like any other crop, the plant demands intensive management and care so that economically viable yield may be attained. The susceptibility of Jatropha to weed competition and pest and disease damages is highlighted. Some details on selection of sites suitable for Jatropha growing (climate and soil conditions) and important site preparation procedures for its establishment are provided. Finally, future research needs for proper domestication of Jatropha are discussed.

JATROPHAWORLD 2008 is a showcase of all the latest trends and shifts occurring in the Jatropha value chain, bringing together on a single platform, the best expertise to discuss and analyze the present and future dynamics of Jatropha from a technological and socio-economic angle. To find more about JatrophaWorld in Hamburg from October 20 to 21, 2008, please visit http://www.futureenergyevents.com/jatropha/.