Bioenergy and biofuels are still on the agenda, their impact (both proven and potential) at the socio-economic and environmental level remain a hot topic of conversation. Despite all the controversy a universally accepted fact is that the development of this industry has major impacts (positive and/or negative) in all dimensions of food security (availability, access, utilization and stability).

Bioenergy can be a stable source of employment and income, creating opportunities for development in impoverished regions. But poorly designed or badly managed investments can have profound negative impacts on areas like access to land, soil productivity or water availability (for instance), rapidly deteriorating food security in a region or country.

To facilitate these processes, FAO published a report "Impacts of Bioenergy on Food Security - Guidance for Assessment and Response at National and Project Levels." The document presents sets of indicators and methodologies for assessing the impact (at national and project) of biofuels on food security. The indicators were developed by FAO in agreement with GBEP (Global Bioenergy Partnership).

The report can be accessed HERE.