Scrap biofuel targets now, says Caroline Lucas
07 July 2008
Green Party Principal Speaker Caroline Lucas MEP has called for an end to the government's biofuel push and the looming EU equivalent, as Ruth Kelly announces the publication of Ed Gallagher's report into the sustainability and food impacts of biofuels. Instead, Dr Lucas urged UK and EU administrations to stand up to the automotive lobby and improve fuel economy regulations.
The Renewable Transport Fuels Obligation (RTFO) requires that 5% of road vehicle fuel is provided form 'renewable' - that is, biofuel - sources by 2010. Despite the increased political awareness of the social and environmental costs of biofuels, including soaring food prices, the Greens are the only party committed to scrapping the RTFO.
In September, MEPs will vote on a Europe-wide target of 20% of road fuel to come form biofuels by 2020.
Dr Lucas said:
"The Gallagher Report confirms the role of biofuel cultivation in undermining efforts to feed the poor, halt climate change and protect vital ecosystems. Yet the government persists in pushing forward a biofuel agenda, ironically through Ed Gallagher's own Renewable Fuels Agency.
"Everyone, it seems, knows just how dangerous and unjust this policy is likely to be - except in Westminster. Remarkably, of political parties, only the Greens advocate scrapping the biofuels push in favour of increased efficiency and improved public transport.
"To really get to grips with road traffic emissions, the government must improve fuel economy standards. But of course that would mean standing up to the powerful motor lobby in Europe, and standing up to corporate interests has never been New Labour's strong suit."
