A coalition of climate-focused organizations has raised concerns about the adoption of biofuels in international shipping, arguing that such a shift could lead to increased food insecurity, deforestation, and human rights violations. This warning comes amid deliberations by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) as it seeks to establish new climate regulations aimed at significantly reducing emissions in the shipping sector.
The coalition, consisting of Biofuelwatch (UK), the Global Forest Coalition (US), and the AbibiNsroma Foundation (Ghana), emphasizes that widespread biofuel production could have detrimental consequences. They point out that the demand for biofuels could elevate food prices and endanger forest ecosystems, while also displacing vulnerable communities reliant on the land for their livelihoods.
Kenneth Nana Amoateng from the AbibiNsroma Foundation cautions that countries like Ghana could face severe repercussions if the demand for biofuels escalates. The pressures to produce biofuel feedstocks—such as cassava, sorghum, and sugarcane—could lead to land-grabbing, further threatening food security and local livelihoods. Additionally, Amos Yesutanbul from the FIDEP Foundation reinforces the idea that green energy solutions should not undermine human dignity, noting that large-scale biofuel plantations are often associated with the displacement of smallholder farmers, leading to reduced food production and increased poverty.
As the IMO moves towards finalizing climate policies aimed at achieving near-zero decarbonization of shipping by 2050, discussions include a Global Fuel Standard (GFS) that will outline emissions reduction targets linked to fuel intensity. This framework aims to facilitate the gradual phasing out of fossil fuels within the industry.
The last round of IMO negotiations saw Brazil advocating for biofuels as the future of fuel for shipping, with support from countries like Argentina, Ecuador, and Indonesia. Meanwhile, potential feedstocks for biofuel production in Ghana, such as corn and cassava, have been identified.
Despite the urgent need for decarbonization in the shipping industry, the coalition urges a careful consideration of sustainable alternatives that do not compromise environmental health and social equity. As discussions progress towards a climate summit (MEPC 83) scheduled for April 2025, the coalition hopes to steer the focus towards solutions that truly benefit both the environment and the communities affected by such policies.
In summary, while transitioning to biofuels may seem like a viable path for reducing emissions in international shipping, the associated risks could undermine food security, displace communities, and harm ecosystems, necessitating a more holistic approach to sustainability.
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