Sir, As representatives of some of Britain’s largest environmental and development organisations, we believe that the Government’s renewable transport fuel obligation (RTFO) should be postponed. This legislation comes into effect next month, and will require forecourts across the country to provide a proportion of their petrol and diesel from biofuel sources. Recent evidence has shown that many biofuels are actually more damaging to the climate than their fossil fuel equivalents. In addition, unchecked biofuel production poses a threat to vulnerable communities at risk from spiralling food prices, land grabs and human rights abuses, and to wildlife habitats worldwide.

The Government has recently announced a review of the science on biofuels. If done properly and independently, we believe that this will conclude that the majority of biofuels are an ineffective solution to reducing emissions from the transport sector. The Treasury-commissioned King review has also recommended that the focus of policy should be shifted away from biofuels towards engine efficiency.

Proceeding with this policy at this time is clearly illogical. The Government must act now and delay the RTFO until safeguards are in place.

Barbara Stocking

Executive Director, Oxfam

Graham Wynne

Chief Executive, RSPB

Tony Juniper

Executive Director, Friends of the Earth

George Gelber

Head of Public Policy, Cafod

John Sauven

Executive Director, Greenpeace

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