IUCN Releases Guidelines on Biofuels and Invasive Species Report
The risk of biofuel crops becoming invasive and outcompeting native species is increasing as more advanced crops are planted, according to a new report issued by IUCN. The report outlines prevention strategies arguing that invasive species can be managed to reduce the impact on local livelihoods and the environment.
Nadine McCormick, IUCN Energy Network Coordinator:
Current biofuel production is based on established food crops, and while this raises other sustainability concerns, the risk of invasion is not large. However, this risk will increase exponentially as new plants – that grow fast with many seeds in pretty much any land – are cultivated for more advanced biofuels.
Among the plants on the list: jatropha, elephant grass, and giant reeds. The guidelines were developed in concert with the Roundtable on Sustainable Development (RSB).
The report is available for download here.
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