The European Biodiesel Board (EBB) on April 14 welcomed the EU’s move to combat Annex IX biofuel fraud and supported the Sustainability Committee’s specific discussions on the issue, emphasizing that fraud not only threatens the survival of the entire industry, but also undermines the validity of sustainability certification schemes and the EU’s climate goals.
The Commission said that the EU biofuels industry has always maintained high standards and strictly complied with the relevant provisions of the Renewable Energy Directive (RED). While respecting the confidentiality of the Commission’s deliberations, EBB calls on lawmakers to listen to the industry’s voice and work together to advance reforms. To this end, EBB has submitted a revised proposal for immediate and specific adjustments to the current EU rules.
EBB notes that voluntary schemes (such as ISCC) and certification bodies play a key role in the current certification system. The association called for greater investment, especially in compliance monitoring in third countries.EBB also emphasized that non-compliance should be punished more severely to ensure that only truly sustainable biofuels count towards the RED target.
Secretary General Xavier Nouillon said that only strict enforcement of RED criteria will ensure that biofuels make a real contribution to the EU’s transport emissions reduction targets. He said the industry was highly appreciative of the determination shown by EU lawmakers, despite the fact that the final solution was not yet clear.
