Geopolitic / Europe

Transport contributes to about a quarter of the EU's greenhouse gas emissions, with emissions from this sector continuing to rise despite reductions in other areas. The EU has committed to a 90% reduction in transport emissions by 2050, but currently, only 11% of transport energy is derived from renewable sources. To meet the 2030 target of 29%, a significant increase in renewable energy usage is essential. Biofuels, particularly biodiesel produced from feedstocks like vegetable oil and used cooking oil, are scalable and available now. They can power various modes of transport, yet their potential is not fully acknowledged in EU climate strategies. Current emissions measurement methods, which focus solely on tailpipe emissions, fail to account for the full life cycle of fuels, leading to an incomplete assessment of their environmental impact. A shift to a well-to-wheel approach would provide a more accurate evaluation of energy sources, allowing for a fair comparison of different fuels. Biodiesel can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90% and can be utilized in existing vehicles without significant modifications. However, its role must be recognized alongside electrification to effectively contribute to decarbonization efforts. The absence of renewable energy targets beyond 2030 creates uncertainty that hampers investment in biofuels at a critical time. Most new vehicles sold are still combustion engines, which will remain on the roads for decades, perpetuating reliance on fossil fuels without the integration of biofuels. Additionally, the biodiesel industry plays a vital role in the EU's bio-economy, contributing to the production of everyday goods and reducing dependence on fossil oil.