Balancing biofuel production and food security: The case of OECD countries

By the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), countries are actively addressing one of today's most pressing challenges: food security. Policies that promote the strengthening of agricultural economies raise significant questions regarding food security at both local and global scales. Researchers aim to reduce CO2 emissions by emphasizing environmental protection and using renewable energy sources. However, the increase in CO2 emissions leads to rising global temperatures, negatively impacting human life, biodiversity, land quality, and water resources essential for overall food security. This study contributes to the literature by examining the impacts of biodiesel production, petroleum production, and their socio-economic effects on food security. In this context, the study aligns with the SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 15 (Life on Land) goals of OECD countries. In the study, the CS-ARDL method, which accounts for cross-sectional dependence, endogeneity, and heterogeneity, was employed. The empirical analysis results reveal that biofuel production has a negative impact on food security in OECD economies. Additionally, it has been determined that certain variables, such as petroleum production, also have negative effects on food security. The findings highlight the critical importance of understanding how biofuel production impacts food security in OECD countries. Policymakers should consider food security while promoting biofuel programs and implement policies aimed at protecting people.