10/2/2006
Commission to Boost Biofuel Production

The European Commission adopted an ambitious EU Strategy for Biofuel this week, with a range of potential market-based, legislative and research measures to boost production of fuels from agricultural raw materials.

The strategy builds on the biomass action plan adopted in December 2005 and has three main aims: promoting biofuel use in both the EU and developing countries; improving the cost-competitiveness of biofuels by increasing research into ‘second generation’ fuels; and supporting developing countries where biofuel production could stimulate sustainable economic growth.

 Increased use of biofuels will bring numerous benefits, by reducing Europe’s dependence on fossil fuel imports, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, providing new outlets for farmers and opening up new economic possibilities in several developing countries.

“There has never been a better moment to push the case for biofuels,” said Mariann Fischer Boel, Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development. “Crude oil prices remain high. We face stringent targets under the Kyoto Protocol and the recent controversy over imports of Russian gas has underlined the importance of increasing Europe’s energy self-sufficiency. Raw materials for biofuel production also provide a potential new outlet for Europe’s farmers, who have been freed by CAP reform to become true entrepreneurs.”

Development Commissioner Louis Michel highlighted the potential opportunities that biofuels production present for developing countries, notably those affected by the sugar reform. “Many developing countries are naturally well placed for the production of biofuel feedstocks, particularly those traditionally strong in sugar production. The expanding EU market for biofuels will provide them with new export possibilities. The EU will help them maximise this opportunity with support for knowledge transfer and development of their market potential.”

More information on the Commission's strategy is available at http://europa.eu.int/comm/agriculture/biomass/biofuel/index_en.htm