Although mesquite will probably not be used in a broad sense such as fueling everyday trucks and cars, it can be used to power farm equipment and private fleets. The actual downside to a larger scale use of mesquite fuel is the cost to transport it. And some are not sure that mesquite poses the same problem as chopping down other trees. Once those forests are destroyed, what happens?

But according to researchers, mesquite has a ten year re-growth period, which allows new trees to replenish quickly. Also, in places like Texas where mesquite trees are considered invasive and troublesome due to their long reaching roots and greedy consumption of water, putting the trees to good use seems highly beneficial. In fact, many cattle farmers and ranch owners would welcome the removal of the trees.

Proponents of mesquite based ethanol further contend that allowing mesquite refineries in rural areas where the product is consumed, will provide jobs and economic stability for years to come. In addition, mesquite can be used in power generation plants to convert it to electricity. And it does not add to greenhouse gas emissions like fossil fuels do.