Science Story

08 January 2009 20:22 BST

Campaigners welcome government's review of biofuels

Campaigners have welcomed the announcement that the government is to review its approach to biofuels.

The decision followed a high-profile meeting at Downing Street yesterday which discussed biofuel and its impact on worldwide food production.

Concerns have been raised that the demand for biofuels is harming food production and increasing food prices, affecting the world's poor.

"We need to look closely at the impact [of biofuels] on food prices and the environment of different production methods and to ensure we are more selective in our support," a Downing Street statement said.

"If our UK review shows that we need to change our approach, we will also push for change in EU biofuels targets."

The Downing Street summit also pledged to work towards better support for agricultural and rural development in the poorest countries and to address domestic food price rises.

Oxfam welcomed the proposed action on global food supply and said definitive action is now needed on biofuels.

"We urge the government to make genuine and concrete changes. They could start by scrapping mandatory targets for biofuels, which are not only pushing up prices, but are linked to land-grabs and labour rights abuses in poor countries," said Oxfam policy director Phil Bloomer.

"The government should not only scrap its own mandatory targets but must show leadership in Europe and make sure no further targets are set there."

Friends of the Earth's food campaigner Vicki Hird added that the prime minister is "right to be concerned about the impact of biofuels on food prices and the environment".

"Evidence is growing that they cause more harm than good. UK and European targets for increasing biofuel use by adding it to our petrol must be scrapped," she explained.