Food security
The fertilizer industry supplies “plant nutrients� which feed the world. Up to 48% of the world’s population are fed by the use of mineral fertilizers. By 2050 there will be 3 billion new mouths to feed. Natural gas is especially efficient in energy and carbon terms in the production of fertilizers, EU energy policy must recognize that natural gas supply ultimately equates to food supply and security of food supply. EU policy makers must differentiate between: energy resources best used for heating purposes, eg nuclear, and other energy resources and those best used as feedstocks or manufacturing inputs. Renewable including biofuels present an interesting diversification but are best employed when they are fully competitive and offer sustainable returns against hydrocarbons and are long-term sustainable.
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