MEPs must be 'smart' on biofuels target

2.30.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Tue 2nd Sep 2008

Sarah collects constituents' biofuels postcards from Friends of the Earth

London Liberal Democrat MEP Sarah Ludford has met members of Friends of the Earth local groups, together with FOE's national biofuels campaigner, to discuss concerns about EU plans for to boost the use of in transport of renewable energy including biofuels as an alternative to oil-based products.

During the meeting Sarah took delivery of hundreds of anti-biofuels postcards from London residents, and afterwards she said:

"We need to find alternatives to petrol in our cars, not just as a response to the oil crisis but to tackle global warming. But as a longstanding supporter of Friends of the Earth, I share their worries that without safeguards, a boost to demand for biofuels could have adverse impacts on the price of food and destroy tropical forest."

"That is why Liberal Democrat MEPs are insisting that the target to be a 'smart' one for renewable energy, including electric, hydrogen and biogas vehicles, rather than just for biofuels; that EU obligations to cut overall energy use be tightened, and that biofuels should only be supported if strict environmental criteria are in place."

Sarah added:

"I very much appreciate that constituents took the trouble to contact me on this vital issue, which strengthens the hand of Liberal Democrats in demanding EU rules which are good for people and for the planet."