09.02.2015
A lack of any transport-focused
mandate from the European Commission (EC) as it delivered its vision on a
long-term energy and climate policy has sparked a reaction from stakeholders in
the renewable fuels industry.
The EC report, titled A policy
framework for climate and energy policy between 2020 to 2030, suggests
moves to a mandatory 40% greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction, 27% binding renewable
energy targets and a 25% indicative energy efficiency goals.
But the European Biodiesel Board (EBB)
says it is ‘regrettable’ that no transport-focused mandate was set, calling it
a ‘missed opportunity to tackle Europe’s most pressing environmental
challenges’.
The EBB, which represents producers
of a main alternative to fossil fuels, believes there should be appropriate
transportation targets and wants member states to acknowledge biodiesel’s
contribution in green growth. It also points to Europe’s high dependence on
fossil fuels imports, particularly diesel from third countries, as another
concern.
‘Transport is at the heart of
European economy, yet this communication from the EC does not appear to
consider the challenges of high energy bill for future growth,’ says Raffaello
Garofalo, EBB secretary general. ‘Our members offer domestic product which reduces
GHG up to 85% compared to diesel. Europe can make the choice of promoting both
European growth and employment by playing a leading role in tackling climate
change adverse effects.’
Five years ago, European
institutions paved the way for a 6% GHG emission reduction target in fuels by
2020, while fostering reliance on renewable sources in overall transport.
‘Binding targets have shown to be
right in deploying renewable sources. Industry relies on stable long-term
policy framework. European institutions and member states have the
responsibility to reinforce sustainable transport with specific targets,’
continues Garofalo. ‘If biofuels targets are not confirmed post-2020, investments will stop as of today.’
Best Regards to
