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Low faith in biofuels for climate
BBC NEWS | Science/Nature | Low faith in biofuels for climate
Low faith in biofuels for climate
By Richard Black
Environment correspondent, BBC News website
Campaigners outside the talks have a simple message for
delegates
Decision-makers in the climate change field have little faith in
biofuels as a low-carbon technology, the World Conservation Union
(IUCN) says.
Unveiled at the UN climate convention meeting in Bali, its survey
suggests professionals have more confidence in bicycles than in
biofuels. ....
Of 18 technologies suggested by IUCN, the current generation of
biofuels came bottom of the list, with only 21% believing in its
potential to "lower overall carbon levels in the atmosphere without
unacceptable side effects" over the next 25 years. ...
Although the EU and the US are attempting to boost the expansion of
biofuels, recent evidence is equivocal about their potential.
Studies show they may produce only marginal carbon savings compared
to conventional petrol and diesel.
In Indonesia and elsewhere, forests are being cleared for palm oil
plantations, partly to produce biofuels. There is evidence that
leaving forests intact results in greater climate benefits while
protecting biodiversity.
Life at the extremes
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