Improve process efficiency through development and application of improved process control and measurement technologies such as sensors. These new processes and products will be environmentally compatible, stimulate the economy through added jobs, and increase income from domestic and export markets. The Southern Region is an appealing location for developing new non-food and fiber industries because of favorable climates, labor markets, and tax structures. The region's diverse climate is advantageous to the development of new crops, such as kenaf and canola, and related processing industries. Proximity of processing industries to production areas of crops, animals, and timber in the South reduces transportation costs of bulky materials.
Objectives Find new applications for existing materials.
Provide innovative applications for existing products and materials from renewable agricultural resources. Develop new products. Create opportunities for new products growing out of customer demand, process innovation and modification, and new renewable resource development. Create environmentally sound processes. Develop innovative processes that are efficient and environmentally acceptable to convert renewable resource materials into value-added products.