Agriculture

We recognize the importance of agriculture in the protection of the ecological and social facets of a sustainable biofuel economic growth model. That includes food crops, cattle and timber as part of our Jatropha operation.

Food Crops

In addition to Jatropha, our land is also farmed for the harvesting of regular food crops. A main crop is maize (also known as corn), as well as beans and cassava. These crops are used to feed the communities of our partnering countries.

Cattle

In order to maximize the use of the land, cattle roam freely to graze and serve as a natural source of weed control on our Jatropha operation. True to Bedford’s sustainability efforts, the cattle are a part of the intercropping plan and provide local food in the form of meat, milk and cheese while also contributing to the resident economy.

Timber

Timber is grown on our Jatropha land because: In the unlikely event of a fire, timber reduces the wind currents that would fuel the spread of flames and because Jatropha can be susceptible to a powdery mildew. This air borne fungus can be contained by the division of wood locks (wind breaks). In essence, timber acts as an eco-friendly fungicide.