Growth of Biofuel Production Supported by Government

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The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan announced on October 1, 2008, that the Biofuel Act had come into effect. The act aims at sustainable and sound development of the agriculture, forestry and fishery sectors, and at diversifying energy sources by using biomass derived from these sectors.

According to the act, businesses that devise plans based on government policy can receive support, and government certification. Support may include reductions of application fees for the Plant Variety Protection and Seed Act, and reductions of fixed assets tax. The intended business plans are：(1) business plans to jointly produce materials and fuels by workers in the agriculture, forestry or fishery sectors and biofuel manufacturers; and (2) research and development plans for more efficient production of biofuels.

Thus, there are great hopes that diversification of energy sources will lead to local revitalization, ensure income and management stability for workers in the agriculture, forestry and fishery sectors, conserve farmland, and increase food production.

- Japan's Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries official website
http://www.maff.go.jp/e/index.html

Posted: 2009/01/30 06:00:15 AM

TAG Energy , Government