Abstract
The sugar industry has the potential to contribute to better a better ecosystem through the effective management of biomass resources in the sector. There is the potential to produce sugar, electricity and ethanol, among many other by-products. This
paper considers parts of the lifecycle of the sugar production process in South Africa focusing on the potential for energy efficiency in sugar production, cogeneration of electricity and steam and the impact of extension to the production of ethanol
for fuel blending. The scope for improved energy security, avoided green house gas emissions and use of bio-waste in more efficient ways is examined. The paper explores the important role that sugar cane derived biomass can play in a way that contributes to a greener and more sustainable economic activity with far reaching and positive social impacts.