The EC project JOU2-0232 entitled "Bioethanol production from Sorghum: Interchange of Research and Experience between EC and two developing countries (Thailand & Zimbabwe)" was established in November 1992. This project aims to learn from the industrial use of Sorghum in both Thailand and Zimbabwe whilst utilising scientific techniques developed in the EC to enhance productivity and reduce the environmental impacts of its growth. Such research is presently of direct relevance to the more arid regions of the EC, but with further research Sorghum may be of benefit to the cooler countries elsewhere in the EC where Sorghum growth is slower.
The addition of Hungary and Romania would significantly broaden the scope of the project as both Hungary and Romania grow Sorghum commercially and have long established programmes for the research and development of Sorghum. Their R&D is based on field trials,
physiological work and agrometeorological modelling.
The established nature of the R&D programmes in both Hungary and Romania would allow the extension of the existing JOUL2 project to these Eastern European countries within the remaining 2 year time frame. The accompanying Hungary proposal from Dr. Gosse'sprogramme (sweet Sorghum European Network, JOUB-0036) should form part of our proposal.