Archived press release
Go to our press releases area for our current press releases.
EU agrees renewable energy deal
9 December 2008
Friends of the Earth has welcomed today's EU agreement committing the bloc to securing 20 per cent of its energy needs from renewable energy sources by 2020. But the environmental campaign group expressed disappointment at plans to increase the use of biofuels.
Friends of the Earth's climate campaigner, Robin Webster said:
"The renewable energy deal is a ray of hope amidst the gloom of the EU climate negotiations."
"Investing in safe, clean renewable energy will not only reduce our dependency on fossil fuels and tackle climate change, it will also create tens of thousands of jobs and create new business opportunities."
"We're delighted that the UK government has backed this deal - this country could be a world leader in developing green energy. We have the windiest country in Europe and the continent's best wave and tidal resources."
"But we still languish near the bottom of the European renewable energy table - ministers must now get on with the urgent task of a huge investment in green energy."
However, Friends of the Earth expressed disappointment with the plans to increase the use of biofuels which will lead to increased deforestation and rising food prices.
Robin Webster said:
"Unfortunately the EU has chosen to ignore clear evidence that biofuels cause more emissions than they save."
"Growing crops for fuel has pushed up food prices, damaged rainforests - and led to an increase in carbon dioxide emissions."
"Biofuels are a dangerous distraction from the real transport solutions needed to end our addiction to fossil fuels and cut emissions - such as smarter cars that use less fuel and better public transport."
If you're a journalist looking for press information please contact the Friends of the Earth media team on 020 7566 1649.
Published by Friends of the Earth Trust
Last modified: Dec 2008
