Biofuels - Science of Innovation

The video discusses the development of biofuels as an alternative energy source to reduce fossil fuel emissions. It highlights the challenges of using corn for biofuel and introduces innovative research by Steve Hutchinson on cellulosic biomass. Hutchinson's work involves a marine bacterium, sacrophagus degradants, capable of breaking down plant cell walls into sugars for biofuel production. The research led to the creation of a company, A Metis, focusing on enzyme production and biofuel commercialization. The video emphasizes the potential of biofuels to provide a cheaper, sustainable energy source.

Explain the process of converting cellulosic biomass into sugar as discovered by Hutchinson.

How does Hutchinson's research contribute to the biofuel industry?

What potential impact could cellulosic biofuels have on gasoline prices?