Building capacity to monitor compliance with biofuel sustainability standards
The substantial and growing interest in biofuels as a potential contribution to improving energy security, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and in delivering rural economic development benefits has been challenged in recent years by non-governmental organizations and some scientists. In some cases these intended benefits have not been delivered, and instead, negative consequences such as land grabbing and increased GHG emissions have been reported. This white paper is focused on building capacity for monitoring compliance with biofuel sustainability standards. Within this framework, building capacity encompasses a host of issues that include financial, technological, educational and social requirements. This paper is primarily intended to assist organizations developing standards for biofuels in accessing existing and emerging information on tools, approaches and mechanisms for monitoring compliance and outcomes.