According to Professor Olle Inganäs at Linköping University in Sweden, a biomass of trees and a by-product of paper manufacturing called lignin can be used to create a battery cathode.

His proposal may begin a new industrial development, but it may also contribute to deforestation. Regardless I feel it is important to remain open minded to new organic energy sources to limit our consumption of fossil fuels.

Sakr, S. (2012, March 23). What if trees could be used as batteries? [Web log message]. Retrieved from http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/23/trees-could-be-used-as-batteries/