Greenpeace says biodiesel demand not a significant driver in Amazon deforestation

In Brazil, a comprehensive report report in Biodiesel magazine on deforestation and soy cultivation quotes Greenpeace in saying that "Biodiesel demand for soy oil is not seen as a significant driver of Amazon deforestation. Most of the soya grown in Brazil including what is grown on illegal plantations is for animal and human consumption, and right now the Brazilian government is investing in other feedstocks for the development of its biofuels program."

Greenpeace said that a 2006 moratorium by ADM, Cargill and Bunge against trading soy grown on newly deforested areas has had a material impact, and that Greenpeace hopes the moratorium can be extended through 2010.

In addition, DTN is reporting that US corn and bean exports are remaining steady or increasing while Brazilian corn and soybean acreage is holding steady or shrinking.