Project management: Jatropha Alliance

Effective oversight and management of projects

In 2008, GEXSI, in collaboration with the Swiss-based Roundtable on Sustainable Biofuels, created the Jatropha Alliance (www.jatropha-alliance.org).  The Alliance advocates bio-oil production from drought-resistant trees as a sustainable fuel source, and undertakes research to develop the tree as an alternative and commercially viable fuel source.

On a strategic and operational level, GEXSI Capital Partners continue to provide support to further the aims of the Alliance.

From a strategic standpoint, an important contribution made by us  has been our work in overcoming the topical ‘Food vs. Fuel’ and ‘Fuel vs. Rainforests’ debates that often define the parameters of discussions concerning the development of biofuels. We were able to supply the Alliance with robust evidence that Jatropha does not compete with existing food supplies, nor does it present a threat to primary rainforest.

Further, in 2009, GEXSI was able to provide the Jatropha Alliance with concrete and measurable results from its work in Madagascar to underline the potential value of Jatropha as a source of sustainable energy.

Operationally, GEXSI Capital Partners manages the Alliance's day-to-day efforts by ensuring the smooth and effective administration of the Alliance: managing the membership's subscription scheme; dealing with queries; and, providing regular updates to the membership.

The provision of this support demonstrates in a concrete way GEXSI Capital Partner's professional approach to project management.