The European Waste-based and Advanced Biofuels Association (EWABA) is pushing for the rapid adoption of the Union Database (UDB) to ensure the sustainability and traceability of biofuels across the EU. The database is designed to prevent fraudulent imports by recording every transaction from feedstock collection to final consumption. EWABA members have already completed two successful technical pilots involving biodiesel producers and waste collectors, confirming the system’s stability and reliability without major issues.

However, without binding targets and deadlines, the UDB risks limited effectiveness, leaving room for fraudulent practices that undermine fair competition and damage legitimate EU producers. While some member states have urged caution, the European Commission has emphasized that the system is already operational and requires mandatory use to achieve full traceability.

EWABA recommends an EU-wide coordinated plan to monitor participation, set a roadmap for improvements, and prioritize mandatory UDB implementation in mature liquid biofuel supply chains. Integration of national databases should not delay deployment, and coverage must extend to feedstock supply to prevent false data. EWABA stresses the urgency of clear implementation timelines, stronger enforcement, and immediate industry certainty to effectively combat fraud.