Potential Bioenergy Crops: Sweet Sorghum and Globe Artichoke

The growing international demand for petroleum-based fuel and the related environmental issues, such as greenhouse gas emissions, global warming, and changes in the climate, have redirected global focus toward the development of sustainable, eco-friendly, and renewable fuels derived from energy crops. The production of biofuel utilizing fast-growing and very effective bioenergy crops is becoming a dependable substitute for fossil fuels. Bioenergy crops refer to specific plants that are cultivated and managed at reduced expenses for the purpose of producing biofuels. Among these, globe artichoke and sweet sorghum are significant bioenergy crops that can expedite the shift towards a low-carbon economy. Both plants are important crops that serve multiple purposes as food, animal feed, and bioenergy sources. Moreover, they are highly adaptable to harsh conditions. The potential for ethanol production from sweet sorghum is a minimum of 6000 L per hectare. Globe artichoke, on the other hand, has high biomass and energy production even with limited external management sources. These traits make them highly desirable as bioenergy plants. This review demonstrates the potential of global artichoke and sweet sorghum as bioenergy sources. A comprehensive understanding of the bioenergy potential of globe artichoke and sweet sorghum will better allow us to exploit these crops.