The European Biogas Association (EBA) has presented its roadmap towards 2040, in which it defines biogases as a strategic element to achieve European climate objectives, promote the circular economy and strengthen energy security. In a context where the European Commission is setting new emission reduction targets for 2040, the EBA proposes establishing a binding target of 100.000 billion cubic meters (bcm) of biogas and biomethane by that year, a figure that would rise to 151 bcm in 2050.
This approach is based on three fundamental circular pillars:
- Renewable EnergyWith a sustainable potential of 101 bcm by 2040, biogases will gradually replace fossil fuels in sectors such as industry, transportation, and air conditioning.
- Organic fertilizersAnaerobic digestion allows waste to be treated and biofertilizers obtained, which can replace some synthetic fertilizers, reducing dependence on imports and improving soil health.
- Biogenic CO₂: Capturing CO₂ generated in the biogas production process can replace up to 89 million tons of fossil CO₂ in key industries such as food, chemicals, cement, and e-fuels.
Despite the sector's sustained growth—with an annual rate of 20% and more than 22 bcm produced by 2023—the EBA warns that the potential of renewable gases is still far from being fully exploited. It therefore calls on the European Commission to create a European Charter for Renewable Gases, an initiative that articulates a shared vision among Member States, defines enabling conditions, and promotes sectoral deployment.
Key measures proposed in this Charter include:
- Voluntary national commitments ("Pledges") for renewable gas production.
- Acceleration of authorization procedures.
- Improving market design and support schemes.
- Strengthening connection, treatment and storage infrastructure.
- Recognition of the role of renewable gases in the circular economy.
- Strategic coordination between the European Commission and the States.
- Appointment of a national coordinator to ensure regulatory consistency.
In addition to its environmental benefits, the development of the sector will bring local employment, especially in rural areas, will promote energy independence, will reduce the dependence on external inputs such as fertilizers or industrial CO₂ and will strengthen the economic competitiveness European.
Avebiom, organizer of the 5th Renewable Gas Show and the 18th International Bioenergy Congress supports this integrative approach and reminds that the days 1 and 2 October 2025 In Valladolid, the sector's leading organizations, companies, and experts will gather to network, debate, and share strategies that address these challenges and opportunities.