Ethanol's greenhouse gas Impact debated

Sep 05, 2023

A recent draft "commentary" by the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Science Advisory Board (SAB) has put the spotlight on corn ethanol and its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. These findings could influence decisions related to biofuel blending volumes in the renewable fuel standard (RFS).

In their communication to EPA Administrator Michael Regan on Aug. 21, the SAB voiced concerns: “Current science suggests that corn ethanol might not offer significant climate advantages over traditional fuels like gasoline or diesel.” This stance, predictably, hasn’t gone down well with the biofuels industry.

The Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) in particular has been vocal in its disagreement. Labeling SAB’s conclusions as “ill-informed” and the result of a non-transparent process, the RFA has raised questions about the thoroughness of SAB’s research. They argue that the board may not have considered all available scientific data.

This disagreement highlights the complexities involved in evaluating biofuels' environmental impact. As the debate intensifies, a comprehensive, unbiased review becomes ever more essential for both ecological and industrial interests.

Source : wisconsinagconnection

Video: Secure Pork Supply Plan | Prepare to Protect Your Herd | U.S. Pork Producers

Join Jill Brokaw, a third-generation pig farmer, as she dives into the vital role of the Secure Pork Supply (SPS) Plan in preparing the U.S. pork industry for potential foreign animal disease outbreaks. This video is an essential watch for pork producers who are looking to safeguard their operations against the threats of diseases like foot and mouth disease, classical swine fever, and African swine fever. Why Should Pork Producers Care? An outbreak of foreign animal diseases in the U.S. could lead to severe restrictions and potentially result in industry-wide financial losses estimated between $15 to $100 billion. The SPS Plan is a collective effort to prevent such catastrophic outcomes by enhancing biosecurity, ensuring animal traceability, and promoting effective disease monitoring.