Jatropha curcas (Jatropha) may overcome some of the negative points inherent in popular biofuel-focused
debates, including those on food insecurity and environmental degradation concerns. In this short
response, we assess the views expressed by Achten et al. (2010) in light of recent case study-based
research in Malawi that identifies and analyses the current context and potential for rural development
of both local-level community-led and larger-scale private sector Jatropha projects in Malawi.
Although large-scale cultivation of Jatropha is at risk of economic loss resultant from knowledge gaps
and unpredictable yields, our research shows that small-scale initiatives do have the potential to
contribute positively to rural livelihoods. Sales of seeds or production of Jatropha oil for stoves, engines,
soap and paraffin can result in reduced household expenditure or increased incomes. In order for these
benefits to be realised and up-scaled, further institutional support in terms of knowledge and technical
provision is vital, and must be communicated through established and context-specific, locally-appropriate
channels. While the biofuel debate remains global, we assert that actions should be focused at the
local level in order to realise developmental, sustainability and climate change mitigation benefits across
a range of scales.