European Commission investigating ISCC EU certification of waste-based biofuels

In Belgium, ISCC is aware of the recent discussions by the EU Committee on Sustainability of Biofuels, Bioliquids, and Biomass Fuels concerning future recognition of ISCC EU certification of waste-based biofuels.

According to its current information, the European Commission is considering suspending the recognition of ISCC EU for waste-based biofuels for 2.5 years. This action is said to be subject to further legal scrutiny and will need approval by Member States.
“We are more than surprised by this step. ISCC has been a frontrunner in implementing the most strict and effective measures to ensure integrity and fraud prevention in the market for years. It has an undisputed reputation for setting the strictest standards. It comes after we have actively supported the European Commission’s and Member States’ investigation of the alleged frauds and promoted and implemented additional anti-fraud measures in dialogue with the European Commission during the past two years,” ISCC said in a statement.
“Therefore, we are unable to see the rationale of the planned measure, which seems ad hoc and baseless. We do not see alternatives to ISCC EU with better or even comparable market fraud prevention mechanisms. Moreover, other voluntary schemes would not be able to fill the gap. The measure would be a severe blow to the entire market for waste-based biofuels and would seriously jeopardise the ability of the obligated parties to comply with blending mandates.
“Also, we see no legal basis for the planned measure. Fundamental procedural and legal rules, such as the right to a prior hearing, have not been observed. The fact that only the ISCC EU recognition for waste-based biofuels is to be singled out discriminates against us.
“We are in ongoing and constructive dialogue with the European Commission and will, together with our market partners, do everything in our power to avoid further market disruption. We remain committed to keeping our members, partners, and stakeholders informed as soon as further details become available.”