RSB recognised by the EU as proof of compliance with the RED

The Roundtable on Sustainable Biofuels' (RSB) standard and certification system has been recognised by the EU as a way to demonstrate and document compliance with the EU biofuels mandate.

In order to qualify under the Renewable Energy Directive (RED), biofuels consumed within the EU must demonstrate environmental benefits compared to its fossil-based alternatives. In order to count toward the mandate, for example, feedstocks must be cultivated without damaging the land and have a high biodiversity value or high carbon stock. Additionally, biofuels must to 35% less greenhouse gas (GHG) emitting than fossil fuels.

'The standard developed and promulgated by the Roundtable on Sustainable Biofuels is implemented by way of our global certification scheme, which ensure that biofuels are produced in an environmentally and socially responsible manner,' says RSB Chair Barbara Bramble, senior advisor for the International climate and Energy Program at the National Wildlife Federation. 'The RSB certification system also provides for biofuel and biomass traceability.'

The implementing rules of the (RED) include certification under voluntary standards, which are recognised by the European Commission (EC) as proof of compliance, in order to facilitate access into the EU market. As a result, the RSB applied for EC recognition and from 19 July, RBS certified biofuels have open access to the EU market without further verification of sustainability aspects.