Copa & Cogeca send letter to EU Commission Vice-President strongly opposing plans

The move comes just before the EU Commission is set to debate options for reform of the EU renewable energy directive which is due out on December 7.

Speaking ahead of the debate, Copa President Martin Merrild said “ conventional biofuels have many advantages for the EU economy at large and for the environment. They help the EU to reduce its  protein deficit in animal feed as only a part of the rapeseed or wheat is used to produce biodiesel or bioethanol. The rest is used for feed. Biofuel outlets  give farmers a way to diversify crop production and an alternative source of revenue to produce quality food supplies for a growing world population which is crucial given their low incomes. It also helps to reduce volatility on the agricultural commodity markets. In addition, biofuel use is important for enhancing  growth and jobs in rural areas and for the bioeconomy and green growth. Conventional biofuels consequently play a vital role in narrowing the EU’s feed protein trade balance and increasing food security for European citizens. And they are a cost-effective way to decarbonise the transport sector”.

Cogeca President Thomas Magnusson added “But in order to fulfil their potential, they need a long term and stable, long term EU policy also if the EU wants to attract capital to the advanced biofuels sector. We consequently urge the EU to ensure that conventional biofuels are not phased out post-2020  in the upcoming reform of the EU renewable energy directive due out by the end of the year. If developed responsibly, sustainable biofuel production is a key element for global food production”.