This report looks at both the grain and cellulose-based “bioenergy landscapes” and review what is known about their biogeochemical impacts. This report will also explore the complexity of factors involved in calculating the benefits of particular cropping systems. In evaluating the benefits, the use of mathematics as a method to projecting performance and environmental outcomes is explained as a substitute for experimental studies of ecosystem models.

This report is one of a four-part series based upon scientific manuscripts initially presented at a conference hosted by the Ecological Society of America (ESA) and sponsored by a consortium of other scientific organizations, nongovernmental
organizations, federal agencies, and the private sector in Washington, DC, on March 10, 2008.
All four reports can be found at the the link below or the following web address: http://www.esa.org/biofuelsreports/