A conference on sustainable mobility in Europe has highlighted synthetic fuels as a means of tackling emissions challenges and improving energy efficiency in transport.

The strategic role of synthetic fuels as a way of helping solve environmental problems was addressed at a Brussels conference this week by the Alliance of Synthetic Fuels in Europe (ASFE), a group that comprises DaimlerChrysler, Renault, Royal Dutch Shell, Sasol Chevron and Volkswagen.

Synthetic fuels are near zero sulphur transport fuels made from natural gas (GTL), biomass (BTL) or coal (CTL). Biomass synthetic fuel can help to lower greenhouse gases by up to 90 per cent; all varieties reduce emissions of particulates, nitrogen oxide, hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide.

ASFE members believe that the new fuels can be used by car manufacturers and suppliers working together to produce a more sustainable transport future.

Rob Routs, executive director of Royal Dutch Shell said synthetic fuels could reduce oil dependency. "They provide a cost effective, realistic development path between today's fuels and longer term renewable energy," he said.

Thomas Weber of DaimlerChrysler added: "Synthetic fuels can make a real contribution in many of Europe's policy areas – combating climate change, reducing energy consumption, diversifying energy supplies, ensuring security of energy supply and improving air quality."


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