Biobrændsel og innovation: Forskning og udvikling

As I stated this morning we are all extremely impressed by Brazil's results in regard to first generation biofuels. But at the same time we need to be realistic. We do not all have the natural conditions for adopting the Brazilian approach as such.

In that perspective, Denmark agrees that 2nd generation biofuels – as mentioned in the plenary session yesterday – is of high importance if we are to expand the role of biofuels in transportation as well as in other sectors.

Ladies and gentlemen, since the Ford T was put into mass production more than 100 years ago, car technology has been through a tremendous development.

However, only until recently the energy source has remained the same. Therefore time has come to act and learn from successful experiences such as the Brazilian introduction of flex cars.

The financial crisis should not be a reason for us to reduce investments and lower our ambitions when it comes to renewable energy. Rather, we should see the crisis as a reason to look forward and develop new markets of sustainable energy.

This development requires specific efforts on part of governments. Both in terms of establishing a sufficient legal framework. And in terms of providing sufficient financial support for research in the field of 2nd generation biofuels.

As a minister for science, I would like to stress the importance of increased cooperation in this field between our researchers, our research institutions and private companies – at the national and the internatioanl level.

Thank you.