Report: Global Biofuels Emit More CO2 Than Fossil Fuels, T&E Warns

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 12 (Bernama) -- Global biofuels production emits an average of 16 per cent more carbon dioxide (CO2) than the fossil fuels it replaces, according to a new Cerulogy report on behalf of Transport & Environment (T&E).

In a statement, T&E said with demand set to rise by at least 40 per cent by 2030, it has called on world leaders attending COP30 in Brazil to limit the expansion of crop-based biofuels, citing environmental and social concerns.

The higher emissions are largely linked to indirect impacts from farming and deforestation associated with biofuel production. By 2030, biofuels are projected to emit 70 million tonnes (Mt) of CO2 equivalent more than the fossil fuels they replace, comparable to the annual emissions of nearly 30 million diesel vehicles.

Currently, about 32 million hectares of land—roughly the size of Italy—are used for biofuel crops, supplying just four per cent of global transport energy. This area is expected to grow by 60 per cent to 52 million hectares, the size of France, by 2030.

The same land could feed 1.3 billion people, while using only three per cent of that land for solar panels would generate an equivalent amount of energy. Electric vehicles powered by solar energy could cover almost one-third of the current global car fleet.

T&E’s analysis shows that 90 per cent of global biofuel production still relies on food crops, consuming about 150 Mt of corn and 120 Mt of sugarcane and sugar beet in 2023. Around one-fifth of the world’s vegetable oil supply is used for fuel rather than food.

First-generation biofuels also require significant freshwater resources. Driving 100 kilometres on these fuels consumes nearly 3,000 litres of water, compared with just 20 litres for an electric vehicle powered by solar energy.

Brazil is among the fastest-growing biofuel producers, and recent policy changes such as the suspension of the soy moratorium could increase deforestation risks. Canada and India are also set to expand production, while shipping and aviation demand could further drive growth.

T&E called on governments to adopt stricter safeguards against biofuels linked to land clearance and deforestation and to redirect public funds toward electrification, energy efficiency, and truly sustainable alternatives in climate policies.

-- BERNAMA