Biofuels are made from food crops like maize, so by using biofuels we are basically burning poor people’s food in our cars. The amount of crops it takes to fill a large vehicle fuel tank with biofuel would feed a child for a year. Global targets for using more biofuels could therefore push 600 million more people into hunger by 2020.
But, they are becoming more obvious these days. I recently filled up my car at the local Tesco and noticed that there was a sign on the diesel nozzle stating that 7% of the fuel was from biodiesel sources. How soon before every pump at every filling forecourt has these signs on them?
There is strong scientific evidence that industrial biofuels will be even worse for climate change than the fossil fuels they are meant to replace. To find out more read the Action Aid campaign guide.
There are three things that you can do right now to stop the UK using Biofuels.
1. Lobby the department of transport
By 2020, the government plans to get 10% of all petrol and diesel from biofuel which means that motorists will have no choice but to fill up their cars with biofuels.
We have until June (when our government submits its plan to the EU) to change these targets. Tell politicians you don’t want to put poor people’s food into cars – act now.
2. Spread the word – join in the debate online
We need you to help us let people know how using biofuels increases world hunger and does nothing for climate change. People are blogging, tweeting and debating about biofuels – it’s simply a question of joining the conversation. Find out more.
3. Email your MP asking them to sign a parliamentary petition
An Early Day Motion (a parliamentary petition) has been created, urging the Government not to include targets or funding for biofuels in the Renewable Energy National Action Plan. Ask your MP to sign EDM 828
Current industrial biofuel policies could push 600 million extra people into hunger by 2020.
