New RSB standard for low iLUC biofuels

The Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials (RSB) has released a new draft standard which is an 'add-on certification module' to the RSB standard for biofuels and bio-products.

Entitled 'Low iLUC Risk Biomass Criteria and Compliance Indicators', compliance with this new standard means producers will be able to demonstrate that biomass was produced with no indirect impact on food production or biodiversity. For example, thy could do this through an increase in yield, intercropping, using unused/degraded land, or waste/residue materials.

It is based on the Low Indirect Impact Biofuels (LIIB) methodology, developed in collaboration with World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) and Ecofys. RSB-certified operators that comply with the new criteria and compliance indicators will be entitled to an extra 'low iLUC risk' on-product claim.

The new iLUC standard is undergoing consultation with RSB members and will be finalised by the Assembly of Delegates at the General Assembly meeting in Geneva on 1 June.

Rolf Hogan, RSB's executive director, says: 'This new low iLUC standard will allow certain producers to show they generate biofuels crops which do not impact food production. We are pleased to publish these proposals for comment, as the European Parliament recently accepted the "iLUC amendment", which includes provisions for low iLUC biofuels.'