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Alternative Energy

Biofuels: Are They Doing More Harm Than Good?

A biofuel gas pump

Are biofuels really the way of the future?

Biofuels were supposed to be the "green" answer to fossil fuels, and with world oil prices rising, the biofuel business is booming. But the new oil alternative has unforeseen costs, raising the question of just how green and eco-friendly biofuels really are. Get a clearer picture of this complicated issue by looking at DW-WORLD's coverage below.

DW.DE

Merkel Calls on Brazil to Make Biofuel Production Sustainable

German Chancellor Angela Merkel called for rainforest protection in Brazil as well as cooperation with the country on biofuels during the first day of her first Latin America tour. (14.05.2008) 

Germany Defends Biofuels, Hedges Bets on Energy Goals

The German government rejected claims Tuesday that fuel crops were causing a worldwide spike in food prices. Berlin plans to announce a plan for easing the world food crisis by July, agriculture minister Seehofer said. (07.05.2008) 

As Biofuels Fall From Grace, a New Generation Grabs Spotlight

Biofuels made from food crops were once seen as an environmental savior. But not anymore. Now politicians and experts hope a new generation of green fuels will be a powerful weapon against climate change. (29.04.2008) 

German Minister Calls for Reversal of EU Agricultural Policy

German Agriculture Minister Horst Seehofer has called for a drastic rise in European agricultural production, in a reverse of the bloc's previous agricultural policy, to counter rising world food prices and shortages. (19.04.2008) 

Illegal Logging Gives EU Massive Eco-Headache

With tropical rainforests continuing to disappear at an alarming rate, the EU is partially to blame for importing illegally felled timber. So what is Brussels planning to do? (17.04.2008) 

Europe Defends Biofuels as Debate Rages

Europe defended biofuels against charges that their production is a "crime against humanity" that threatens global food supplies. Yet pressure continues to mount for the European Union to back off on its biofuel targets. (14.04.2008) 

Biofuels Linked to Soaring Food Prices

Debate continues to rage over food shortages, rising costs and the link to biofuel production. German cabinet ministers are not in complete agreement over how much biofuels are to blame for food problems. (13.04.2008) 

German Environment Minister Calls Off Biofuel Plans

German Environment Minister Gabriel said the country would be shelving plans to develop biofuels because they were not appropriate for millions of vehicles. Environmental protection groups supported the move. (04.04.2008) 

German Cars Can't Handle Biofuels, Environment Plan at Risk

The German government's plan to introduce a new biofuel blend may now be postponed. Far too many cars are not able to process the fuel, industry sources said, putting a dent in the environment plan. (03.04.2008) 

Audios and videos on the topic

Biofuels Don't Live Up to Expectations

Germany Takes Step Back from Biofuels

German Government Calls for More Discussion on Biofuel Projects (22.04.2008)

The Biofuel Debate (21.04.2008)

Rising Food Prices and Hunger Causes Biofuel Rethink (16.04.2008)

Increased Production of Biofuels Sparks Protests Over Rising Food Prices (15.04.2008)

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