New Zealand embraces biofuels despite controversy

The New Zealand Parliament has passed legislation requiring that biofuels are mixed in with the petrol and diesel sold on garage forecourts.

The Biofuel Bill, which comes into effect from 1st October, legally requires oil companies to sell fuel containing at least 0.5% biofuels, rising incrementally to 2.5% by 2012.

New Zealand’s government has told motorists that biofuel will not damage their cars or increase the price of petrol.

The Green Party has welcomed the legislation, although New Zealand’s opposition party are concerned about the sustainability of biofuels.

Increased use of biofuels in the US and Europe has seen food prices soar, with many parts of the developing world facing famine and food riots.

Those defending the Biofuel Bill say that principles ensuring the biofuels come from sustainable sources are written into the legislation.