Biofuel refers to any fuel obtained from biomass, for instance, algae material, and animal or plant waste, including natural gas, oil, and coal. On the other hand, fossil fuels are formed naturally from decomposing plants and animals (Carneiro et al., 2017). An excellent example is corn which is converted to ethanol by wet or dry mill processing. The source of fossil fuels is the sun through photosynthesis. Carneiro et al. (2017) expound that non-renewable fuels are burnt to release the energy captured by the ancient plant. It is essential to understand the similarities and differences between biofuels and fossil fuels and whether it is a good idea to replace non-renewable energy sources with renewable ones.
The similarity between fossil fuels and biofuels is that they are both derived from living matter that once existed. Additionally, their carbon emission is significant, and their continued use sustainability is questionable in light of their environmental effects (Carneiro et al., 2017). Biofuels and fossil fuels produce electricity and heat to power generators and vehicles globally. In contrast, renewable and non-renewable energy sources exhibit differences. For example, fossil fuels are non-renewable, while biofuels are inexhaustible. Moreover, organisms from non-renewable fuels are made from what has been dead for many years, while modern plants of organic residue make biofuels (Carneiro et al., 2017). Fossil fuels are commonly associated with producing toxic particles and gases that result in lung damage and irritation. On the contrary, inexhaustible energies are not poisonous and therefore do not adversely affect human beings. Additionally, there is a controversy surrounding the use of non-renewable fuels, and most countries are attempting to eliminate them (Carneiro et al., 2017). Renewable sources of energy are environmentally friendly, therefore becoming more popular.
I think that replacing non-renewable energy sources with biofuels will generate significant benefits globally. This is because it will minimize the number of illnesses caused by air pollution. Carneiro et al. (2017) state that inexhaustible energy sources release less carbon dioxide and greenhouse gas in the atmosphere, making them environmentally friendly. At the same time, renewable energy sources can be produced domestically and reduce importation costs from other nations.
Reference
Carneiro, M. L. N., Pradelle, F., Braga, S. L., Gomes, M. S. P., Martins, A. R. F., Turkovics, F., & Pradelle, R. N. (2017). Potential biofuels from algae: Comparison with fossil fuels, ethanol, and biodiesel in Europe and Brazil through life cycle assessment (LCA). Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 73, 632-653.