Biofuels Merger

Bioenergy Association of New Zealand (BANZ)

– Press Release

For Immediate Release

NZ Biofuel Manufacturers Association (NZBMA) merges with the BANZ Liquid Biofuels Interest Group

Wellington, 14 November 2008

The Bioenergy Association of New Zealand (BANZ) announced officially today the consolidation of the efforts of the New Zealand Biofuel Manufacturers Association (NZBMA) with the BANZ Liquid Fuels Interest Group under the banner of BANZ.

Announcing the merger, Mr Brian Cox, BANZ Executive Officer said, “I’m delighted to announce this development. The consolidation of effort is good news for the biofuels industry in New Zealand. The BANZ Liquid Fuels Interest Group will be a strong voice in the sector for producers and suppliers. The aim of the Interest Group is to assist the establishment of a sustainable liquid biofuels market in New Zealand based on indigenous resources. The core of our strategy for the Group has always been to promote the key issues affecting the manufacture and supply of the highest quality biofuels in New Zealand.”

"The merger with NZ Biofuel Manufacturers Association creates an even stronger force to promote the importance of the standards liquid biofuels are to be produced to, and to ensure that the full range of biofuel opportunities are progressed on an equitable footing." Mr Cox said.

“Biofuels in New Zealand have considerable potential but paramount is our ability to ensure that the local investment in the sector is not disadvantaged by import of dumped biofuels from non sustainably produced sources.”

Mr Andre Hamman, former Treasurer of the NZBMA will take on the role of Convener of the Liquid Fuels Interest Group.

Mr Hamman noted, “This merger with the BANZ Liquid Fuels Interest Group is a good outcome for the Association and the timing is right. The recent passing of the Biofuel’s Bill provides a significant incentive for the supply of liquid biofuels from our indigenous bioenergy resource.”

The Bioenergy Association has a growing Membership of people interested in producing and supplying liquid biofuels from indigenous resources.

The BANZ Liquid Biofuels Interest Group will now focus on the development of information resources (including a dedicated web-site), and be holding workshops and seminars to support the liquid biofuels industry. The emphasis will be on liquid biofuel standards, quality and supply.

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