Report slams impact of biofuel targets on developing world

The growing global demand for biofuels is leading to widespread deforestation, the displacement of small hold farmers and abuses of labour rights, according to a report released today by development charity Christian Aid.

Echoing previous reports by green groups, the study argues that large subsidies and targets promoting the use of biofuels in developed countries are causing an increasing amount of land in the developing world to be set aside for production of energy crops, eating into forests and areas previously used for food production.

It adds that the problems associated with biofuel production are already well documented in South America, and warns that they could soon become prevalent elsewhere.

"In Africa, the problems associated with biofuels are not yet as apparent. However if major jatropha plantation delivering significant yield are to be established, the signs are that the story will be repeated," the report states.

Jatropha is widely considered to be better than many established biofuel crops, as it can be grown on marginal land without requiring as much water. But the Christian Aid report says evidence shows that Jatropha plantations need more water than had previously been thought.

Both Air New Zealand and Continental Airlines have completed test flights using a blend of conventional aviation fuel and a biofuel produced from jatropha. Air New Zealand has announced plans to use the new fuel for 10 per cent of its needs by 2013 and demand is likely to soar as other airlines follow suit.

A number of companies are already buying up land in Africa with a view to mass producing biofuel crops, according to Christian Aid.

The report also said that the carbon savings delivered by biofuels are often over estimated because change in land use is not taken into account from many official calculations. Production of some biofuels can emit up to 30 per cent more carbon than the fossil fuel equivalent, the report says.

However, the report does not offer blanket criticism of the development of biofuels in developing countries, arguing that small-scale projects can deliver benefits. It cites the example of a project in Mali where biofuels are used for decentralised energy production and the required energy crops are produced by small-scale co-operatives.

The report concludes that biofuel crops could cause significant damage if they are grown to meet transport targets in industrial markets, arguing that " instead, production should be geared towards energy self sufficiency, rural development and a shift towards decentralised, clean energy for the energy poor in developing countries".