Agrofuels

One of the 'solutions' to climate change being pushed in Europe and the US are biofuels; using land to grow crops for fuel rather than food.

Our three marchers from Latin America, Geanis, Cassia and Rosalia, refuse to refer to biofuels. 'Bio' is connected with life, yet in Brazil corporations are taking over land and bringing environmental destruction in order to produce ethanol for US car drivers. Geanis, Cassia and Rosalia refer to 'agrofuels' instead.

Today I was talking to Kate from South Africa, who says that agrofuels are now being pushed in southern africa. Maize, the staple food, can be used to make ethanol for export to Europe. Around the world food prices are already rising due to biofuels, but the huge amount of land needed to produce a modest amount of food means the price will rise much further.

Kate says African governments are hoping agrofuels will grow their economies. Whilst wealthier landowners may benefit, the effect of rising food prices on a region already suffering from food insecurity caused by agricultural liberalisation and climate change is terrifying.

Unfortunately in a world where resources are alocated by price, rich people's demand for fuel will be judged as more important than the poor's need for food.

Distance covered so far: 760 miles