Adding the enzyme to corn stalks, the researchers say, could allow easier conversion of the woody waste parts of the corn plant into ethanol.

NPR: Scientists Seek New Ways to Produce Biofuel

In fact, government and power plant data show that burning woody biomass releases 1.5 times as much carbon dioxide per megawatt-hour generated as coal, according to the Massachusetts Environmental Energy Alliance.

FORBES: Massachusetts Addresses "Biomass Loophole" and Limits Subsidies

The plant was small, with spiny, silvery leaves, woody stems and blue flowers.

ECONOMIST: Tom DeBaggio