Title:
Biodiversity and Sustainability of Biofuels
Author(s):
Ortolan, C., Oliveira, F., Walter, A., Leal, M.R.L.V.
Document(s):
Paper
Abstract:
Sustainability has been recognized as an essential aspect for the consolidation of the international markets of biofuels. The discussion about sustainability gained momentum during and after the food crisis in 2007¬2008. As consequence, sustainability initiatives and certification schemes have been proposed. It is believed that one of the worst consequences of non sustainable biofuel production is biodiversity loss and, as consequence, the principles of the main sustainability initiatives determine that biofuels cannot be produced in areas of High Conservation Values (HCVs). On the other hand, the need of biodiversity protection and conservation is very complex and involves controversies and conflicts between developed and developing countries: for instance, the concept of biodiversity protection is well disseminated in developed countries and in many developing countries the expansion of agricultural activities can cause land use change. The ultimate aim of this paper is analysing how biodiversity protection has been dealt in the most important sustainability initiatives and certification schemes already proposed. First, the main concerns regarding biofuels production, exclusively from the point of view of biodiversity, are identified. Second, some certification schemes are scrutinised targeting the identification of the main principles and criteria. Finally, it's analysed if the current proposals are able to address the main concerns regarding biodiversity. The main conclusion are that the existing certification schemes are based on the precautionary principle, aim at disseminating best practices, seem adequate for calling attention to most important aspects regarding biodiversity, but, obvious, cannot substitute specific policies and regulations.
Keywords:
biodiversity, biofuels, certification, sustainability
Topic:
Biomass Policies, Markets and Sustainability
Subtopic:
Sustainability assessment and criteria
Event:
20th European Biomass Conference and Exhibition
Session:
5DO.4.5
Pages:
2100 - 2107
ISBN:
978-88-89407-54-7
Paper DOI:
10.5071/20thEUBCE2012-5DO.4.5
Price:
FREE
