The Global Renewable Fuels Alliance (GRFA) is calling on countries who have adopted the 21st Conference of the Parties (COP21) climate agreement to take immediate action. Of 195 attending countries, 177 have signed the official agreement. Bliss Baker, GRFA president, is calling for increased use of biofuels blending as part of these countries’ national carbon reduction plans. The transportation sector produces an estimated 25-30 percent of the world’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Baker says that biofuels, such as ethanol, are a cost-effective and immediate option for adoption and deployment.

“The GRFA is encouraged by the support for strong action to address climate change coming out of COP21” said Baker. “But if we are to have any hope of meeting the ambitious targets laid out in that agreement, substantial action is going to have to be taken soon. Biofuels represent a significant step in the right direction that governments can take today.”

GRFA cites that of the 162 intended nationally determined contributions (INDCs) submitted to date, more than 60 recognized the advantages of biofuels-supportive policies by including them in their carbon emission reduction plans.

Baker pointed out that in addition to the parties to the agreement at COP21, third party groups like the B Team coalition of chief executives and the Carbon Pricing Leadership Coalition have expressed their support for strong public emissions reduction policies that will provide the predictability necessary for the private sector to be able to develop long-term plans.

“Introducing biofuels supportive policies to reduce emissions from the transportation sector in the short and medium term just makes sense.” Baker added, “The biofuels industry will have a significant role to play in international efforts to transition away from carbon-intensive fossil fuels in the transport sector, and the GRFA looks forward to working with governments to develop policies to achieve those goals.”