Ministers map out EU switch to low-emission fuels

Europe should look for ways to increase the use of low-emission fuels in all transport sectors, according to a strategy adopted by EU ministers this week.

Transport ministers meeting in Luxembourg on Friday (8 June) unanimously adopted conclusions on a ‘European Energy Strategy for Transport’, which will go to the Portuguese presidency for development after 1 July.

"These conclusions are the first ever road-map for a European energy strategy for transport," said Wolfgang Tiefensee, German transport minister. The question of passenger car fuel consumption was, he said, "first and foremost".

Ministers welcomed growth in the biofuels market, as the European Commission prepares legislation to help these plant-based fuels make up 10% of the market by 2020. But they warned that "sustainability criteria" will also be needed from the Commission, to ensure that any increase in the growth and production of biofuels does not damage the environment. They also asked for "a sizeable portion" of the Commission’s seventh framework programme for research to be used to develop more efficient ‘second generation’ biofuels.

Ministers said the emission-reduction benefits of alternative fuels should not be limited to cars. Research was also needed into the use of biofuels and other renewable fuels in the aviation and maritime sectors.

New stricter emission standards are needed for the maritime sector, according to the strategy, as well as the possibility of blending biogenic fuels with conventional fuels.

Aviation company Virgin this year announced it was investigating the possible use of bio-kerosene to reduce emissions from its fleet. Methanol, ethanol and bio-methane have all been rejected by aviation companies as impractical low-emission alternatives to kerosene.

Europe should look for ways to increase the use of low-emission fuels in all transport sectors, according to a strategy adopted by EU ministers this week.