Potential Benefits of Jatropha Curcas: A Multidimensional Review of Energy, Environmental, And Socioeconomic Applications (Published)
Jatropha curcas L. (Euphorbiaceae) is a drought-resistant, non-edible oilseed plant that has attracted considerable scientific and policy attention over the past two decades as a promising source of renewable energy, soil reclamation, and rural development. This paper presents a comprehensive review of the multidimensional potential benefits of Jatropha curcas, encompassing biofuel production, carbon sequestration, phytoremediation, medicinal applications, economic empowerment of smallholder farmers, and ecological land restoration. Evidence drawn from peer-reviewed literature, field trials, and policy assessments across sub-Saharan Africa, South and Southeast Asia, and Latin America indicates that, under appropriate agronomic management, Jatropha curcas, can deliver substantial co-benefits beyond energy generation. Challenges relating to yield variability, water requirements, and socioeconomic equity are also examined, and recommendations for optimizing the deployment of Jatropha curcas, in integrated land-use systems are provided.
Keywords: Biodiesel, Carbon Sequestration, Jatropha Curcas, Renewable Energy, biofuel, land reclamation, smallholder farming