“In spite of strong opposition from some industrial lobby groups, MEPs have backed a positive and sustainable proposal on indirect land use change (ILUC) to biofuel production and the promotion of using energy from renewable sources,” GUE/NGL MEP Sabine Wils said after today's vote in the European Parliament's Environment committee.

“Regarding old biofuels, EU production levels are to remain capped at 5.5% of the final transport consumption rate in 2020. The share of energy from advanced biofuels shall be no less than 2.5% of the final transport consumption of energy in 2020 and energy use from renewable sources will receive a priority pathway.”

“It is very important that both social and decent employment rights are respected in third countries and that the rights of indigenous peoples and local communities to the ownership or use of the land from which raw materials are used to produce biofuels and bioliquids are protected. The Commission has a duty to protect these rights by ensuring they are secured and recognised in transparent agreements. This is a clear and strong statement respecting developing countries' rights that we welcome with satisfaction.”

GUE/NGL Press:
David Lundy +32 470 85 05 09
Gay Kavanagh +32 473 84 23 20
Emily Macintosh +32 470 85 05 08