Friday, June 08, 2007 RP joins campaign for rules on bio-fuel use in Asean
THE Philippines, along with Thailand and Indonesia, will work together to convince other nations in the region for common rules on bio-fuels.
“We are forging a common effort with Thailand and Indonesia for the development of common standard on biofuels and flexi fuels,” said Energy Secretary Raphael P.M. Lotilla.
Lotilla said there is a need to push for common standards since many countries, specifically in Europe, and the US are concentrating on alternative fuel use.
He said the common standards would basically outline guiding principles of the countries that are now implementing the usage of alternative and bio-fuels.
China, India and Thailand are currently the largest producers of bio-ethanol and other bio-fuels using sugarcane and wastes from cooking oil and other feedstock to produce bio-fuels.
Despite the projected growth in the use of bio-fuels and flexi fuels, Lotilla said several Southeast Asian countries are hesitant to forge an alliance to ensure steady supply of bio-fuels in the region.
Meanwhile, Lotilla said several foreign capitalists have showed interest in investing in the bio-fuel industry. (MSN/Sunnex)
