**4.2 Economic implications**

Corn-based biofuels can have both positive and negative economic impacts. Demand for corn as a feedstock for biofuel production can spur growth in the agricultural sector and create jobs in farming, processing, and transportation. In addition, the growth of

the biofuels industry can create new employment opportunities in biofuels production and distribution [53]. Additionally, by producing biofuels domestically, countries can reduce their dependence on foreign oil and increase their energy security, while maintaining foreign exchange reserves for other development purposes in the country [41].

However, there are also potential economic drawbacks to consider. Corn biofuel production can contribute to food price volatility and competition with food production for resources. The more corn used for biofuel production, the higher the price of corn as food may be, affecting food prices and food security [48]. In addition, corn-based biofuels can be expensive to produce and use compared to fossil fuels. The production process requires significant energy inputs, and the infrastructure needed to produce and distribute biofuels can be costly [47]. These costs can be passed on to consumers, which can make biofuels less competitive with fossil fuels.

#### **4.3 Social implications**

The most imperative social influence is the creation of new jobs at the biofuel processing plant, particularly in rural areas where corn is typically grown which in turn will increase the living standard of the people of those areas. The expansion of the biofuels industry can also spur economic development in these areas and lead to improved infrastructure and services of those communities [54]. In addition, it can also provide environmental benefits by improving air quality, which in turn can have a positive impact on the health of communities near biofuel production facilities [46].

Apart from this, the biofuel production may also lead to land use changes and biodiversity impacts, which can negatively affect local ecosystems and wildlife. Additionally, the benefits of corn-based biofuels may not be evenly distributed across society [49]. For example, the economic benefits may accrue primarily to large agribusinesses, while the negative impacts, such as land use change and biodiversity degradation, may disproportionately affect indigenous communities or marginalized groups. Also, the increasing demand for corn as a feedstock for biofuels may lead to changes in land use practices that impact marginalized communities, potentially leading to displacement of smallholder farmers and land tenure issues [55].

#### **4.4 Policy implications**

Corn-based biofuels have gained increasing attention in recent years as a potential solution to reducing GHG emissions and increasing energy security. However, there are several policy implications associated with the production and use of corn-based biofuels. One of the main policy implications is related to the use of government subsidies to support the production of corn-based biofuels. Many governments provide subsidies or tax incentives to encourage the production of biofuels, including corn-based ethanol [56]. However, there is ongoing debate about the effectiveness of these subsidies and their impact on food prices, the environment, and energy security. The use of corn for biofuel production can compete with the production of food crops, leading to potential food price increases and shortages in some areas. Therefore, many governments have implemented policies to limit the amount of corn that can be used for biofuel production, or to encourage the use of non-food crops or agricultural residues as feedstocks. Many governments have implemented sustainability standards and certification schemes to ensure that biofuels are produced in an environmentally and socially responsible manner [42] and in turn aim to promote the use of sustainable practices and avoid negative impacts on land use, biodiversity, and water resources.

The production and trade of biofuels can have significant economic impacts, particularly for countries that are heavily dependent on biofuel exports. Therefore, many governments have implemented trade policies and regulations to manage the international trade of biofuels and ensure fair competition [41].

Another important policy consideration is the likely impact of corn-based biofuels on environmental quality viz., air and water quality. The production and use of biofuels can lead to increased emissions of air pollutants, particularly during the cultivation and processing of feedstocks. Additionally, the production and use of biofuels can have significant water requirements, which can lead to competition with other water users and potential impacts on water quality and availability. Some studies have suggested that the life-cycle emissions of corn-based ethanol may be higher than those of gasoline, particularly when indirect land use changes are considered [57–59]. As a result, there is ongoing debate about the role of corn-based biofuels in meeting climate change goals, and the potential need for alternative biofuel feedstocks and technologies.

Hence, it is imperative to note that the policy implications of corn-based biofuels are complex and interrelated. Policies aimed at promoting the production and use of biofuels may have unintended consequences, particularly if they are not designed and implemented in a coordinated and integrated manner. Therefore, it is essential for policymakers to take a comprehensive and holistic approach to the development of biofuel policies, considering the economic, social, environmental, and technical aspects of biofuel production and use.

### **5. Conclusions**

Corn-based biofuels have played an important role in diversifying the energy mix, reducing GHG emissions, and promoting energy security. Extensive breeding and agronomic research, as well as efforts to expand cultivation, have led to improvements in corn-based biofuel production practices, making them a viable and sustainable option. However, it is important to consider the implications of a heavy reliance on corn for biofuel production. Increased demand for corn as a feedstock can lead to higher prices and potential conflicts with food production. Therefore, it is critical to find a balance between biofuel production and food security to ensure that enough food is available for a growing world population. In addition, the study of corn for biofuels underscores the need for continued innovation and research into alternative feedstocks and advanced technologies. This approach would not only address the potential drawbacks of corn-based biofuels, but also expand the range of sustainable options available. Overall, significant progress has been made in the use of corn as a biofuel, but it is important to take a comprehensive and balanced approach that considers environmental, social, and economic factors. In this way, we can maximize the benefits of corn-based biofuels while minimizing the negative impacts and paving the way for a greener and more sustainable energy future.

### **Conflict of interest**

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

*Corn for Biofuel: Status, Prospects and Implications DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.112227*
