Chemists have successfully converted plant material into fuel that vehicles can use directly. Although this was previously accomplished using the fatty acids in vegetable oils, which make up a small part of plant material, researchers have now found a way to create fuel from the carbohydrates that make up about 75% of a plant’s dried weight. Such a process would provide a ‘green’ alternative to traditional fuels as the carbon dioxide produced from burning the fuel would theoretically be sucked up by the following year’s crop as it grows. Unlike other alternative fuels (e.g., Hydrogen), this diesel-like fuel could be distributed through the existing infrastructure of gas stations and pumps. It is estimated that enough plants could be grown in the United States to power a significant percentage of the country’s vehicles.

Now is the time to secure that DeLorean stock and to study up on your Back to the Future mechanics.