Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-000982/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
João Oliveira (The Left)
On a recent visit to the parish of Vila Verde in the municipality of Figueira da Foz, Portugal, I was alerted to the establishment of the BioAdvance biofuels production plant.
It seems that this company set up a plant in Vila Verde, facilitated in terms of licensing by the municipal council, which made changes to the general municipal development plan, and by the Port of Figueira da Foz, which granted a concession contract at the liquid bulk terminal – an area reserved exclusively for complementary activities related to the use of the sea.
Following its investigation of the entire production process, the Coordination and Development Commission for the Central Region (CCDR Centro) issued unfavourable binding opinions, pointing out irremediable project flaws and stressing the obligation to carry out an environmental impact assessment.
According to local residents, BioAdvance omitted relevant information during the licensing procedure, in particular with regard to the use of hazardous substances, especially methanol and hazardous waste.
Locals are complaining about toxic gases in the city of Figueira da Foz, particularly in the parish of Vila Verde, where the plant is located. It has been reported that the project has been supported with EU funding.
In view of the above:
- 1.Can the Commission confirm that the establishment and operation of this plant was supported with EU funding?
- 2.What exact sums did the company receive, and for what purposes?
Submitted: 6.3.2025