From embalming fluids to biofuels: the evolution of non-food uses of crop plants

Many of our staple crops originally came under cultivation for non-food purposes, such as sources of medicine, dye, and even as toxins. Today diverse social needs and technological approaches continue to divert food crops towards new uses, that range from second generation biofuels to sources of biodegradable plastic. Drawing upon a comprehensive review of over 200 major and minor crop plants in various stages of domestication from around the world, this presentation examines the evolution of non-food uses for crop plants, including their applications in rituals, medicine, construction, textiles, fodder and alcohol, and their cultural contributions throughout history.  Case studies and quantitative trends will be used in considering the past, present and future non-food uses of crop plants, and in exploring the ways in which emerging technologies, novel applications and emerging markets continue to change the provisioning role of plants.