Why Invest in Jatropha?
Because
Jatropha can grow in scrubland that is generally uninhabitable by other plant species, land investment is virtually unlimited. Several countries in subtropical regions of Asia and Africa amongst others have begun to invest domestically in the cultivation of Jatropha and the production of Jatropha oil. They are also actively seeking foreign investment in Jatropha plantations. With thousands of hectares that could potentially be planted with Jatropha, these countries are hoping to attract enough investment to turn these areas into economic fields of power. With strong investing, some of the world's poorest countries may become industry leaders in a market that can only grow stronger.
Land is not the only investment available to those interested in Jatropha. As the market grows, there is a need for investment dollars in other components of the processing and distribution systems. Movement of Jatropha products will require refineries, infrastructure and transportation systems. Investments into the research of Jatropha and its production processes also heed great returns. The opportunities to invest in this growing market are endless.
Commercial Investment
Many well known international companies have already tapped into the
Jatropha Market. Some invest in areas of Jatropha research that may help Jatropha benefit their own industries such as Daimler-Chrysler, whilst others are expanding their operations and investing in both land and production systems to plant and refine Jatropha, such as the Nestle Corporation. In addition to these, many other commercial entities, most of which are alternative fuel corporations have invested in Jatropha plantations throughout the world, in countries such as India, The Philippines and Mexico.
Daimler-Chrysler, as well as other car manufacturers, has been investing in research that may one day allow this type of fuel to be used in their vehicles. The Nestle Corporation has invested greatly in the
Jatropha Industry, primarily in The Philippines. Nestle has introduced Jatropha to their coffee plantations as a companion crop to subsidize their farmer's income.
Another large company that is making inroads into the Jatropha Industry is Britain's D1 Oils, a worldwide leader in biofuel production and technology. D1 has invested millions into purchasing and preparing land for Jatropha production in several countries in Asia, Africa and South America.
