THE HAGUE — Environment Minister Jacqueline Cramer is disappointed with Shell's announcement that the company intends to reduce its investment in durable energy — such as wind, water or solar power.

Minister Cramer was responding to a statement made on Tuesday by Shell's Chief Executive Officer Jeroen van der Veer, which confirmed that the oil concern is almost abandoning the course of durable energy entirely. According to the Shell chief, the benefits of investment in durable energy do not justify the expense.

Cramer said a company of the magnitude of Shell should demonstrate leadership in this field and even accused the oil concern of shirking its responsibilities.

Shell will continue to invest in biofuels and carbon sequestration, or underground storage of carbon dioxide emissions. The environment minister said that biofuels are not durable enough as a form of energy and will also have to be replaced in the future.

Radio Netherlands / Expatica