What is the European Biodiesel Board (EBB)?
The European Biodiesel Board, or EBB, is a Brussels-based non-profit organisation founded back in January 1997. It’s the go-to association for companies producing biodiesel across the European Union. Bringing together 43 members who represent about 75% of Europe’s biodiesel output, EBB covers producers using all kinds of feedstocks — from food and feed crops to waste, residues, and other innovative biogenic materials. Biodiesel, mainly used as a substitute for fossil fuels in transport, plays a crucial role in cutting down EU transport emissions and reducing dependence on imported diesel. Simply put, EBB champions the use of biodiesel in Europe and pushes for international standards on sustainability, especially concerning greenhouse gas emissions and feedstock supply.
Main Benefits of the EBB Project
Here are some key figures and facts that highlight the impact and scope of the EBB:
- Established in 1997, making it a long-standing voice in the industry.
- Represents 43 biodiesel producers across Europe.
- Members account for 75% of European biodiesel production.
- Supports biodiesel production from diverse feedstocks including food/feed crops, waste, and residues.
- Contributes significantly to the EU’s transport decarbonisation efforts.
- Helps develop a value chain that generates co-products like food, feed, biochemicals, and biopolymers.
- Works closely with policymakers to shape effective and appropriate European regulations.
The Role and Vision of EBB
EBB’s role? It’s all about making sure the biodiesel industry’s voice is heard loud and clear in EU legislative and policy debates. At the same time, it keeps its members in the loop with the latest trends and developments that matter. The vision is pretty straightforward — a thriving European biodiesel industry powering a decarbonised European economy. The mission? To create a European environment that supports long-term growth and sustainability for biodiesel. And the top priority? Maximising biodiesel’s contribution to cutting transport emissions across Europe.
Who’s Behind the Scenes at EBB?
The EBB is steered by a dedicated board and team, each playing a vital role in driving the organisation forward. The president, Dickon Posnett, leads a board that includes members like Isabelle Weber, Michael Fiedler-Panajotopoulos, Olivier Salmon, and others. The team includes experts such as Matteo Scodanibbio (Policy Officer), Eva Tormo (Technical & Regulatory Affairs Manager), Domenico Mininni (Policy Director), and Xavier Noyon (Secretary General), among others. Together, they navigate the complex regulatory landscape and keep the biodiesel industry moving ahead.
European Policies and Biodiesel Production
European policies have long encouraged biodiesel production, aiming to boost the EU’s protein and energy independence while supporting farmers’ incomes. Thanks to these policies, the EU has grown into the largest global producer and market for biodiesel. This policy backing has been crucial in shaping the industry’s growth and ensuring biodiesel remains a key player in the EU’s energy mix. Biodiesel production doesn’t just replace fossil fuels; it’s part of a broader value chain that creates valuable co-products, supporting multiple sectors beyond just transport.
Project Impact: Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Linked to EBB
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy – promoting renewable energy sources like biodiesel.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – supporting innovative feedstocks and sustainable production methods.
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – encouraging sustainable feedstock sourcing and reducing waste.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – contributing to transport decarbonisation and lowering greenhouse gas emissions.
- SDG 15: Life on Land – promoting sustainable agriculture and biomass production.
Contact and Further Information
For anyone interested in learning more or getting in touch, the European Biodiesel Board is headquartered in Brussels at Rue Beilliard 12, 1040 Brussels, Belgium. They can be reached via email at secretariat@ebb-eu.org. The organisation remains committed to fostering a sustainable future for European transport through biodiesel, working closely with policymakers, producers, and stakeholders across the continent.
