Contact: Joshua Morby 414.791.9120
Groups Tout Benefits of Expanding Ethanol Access
Monroe, Wis. – Wisconsin Bio Industry Alliance Associate Director Jason Rae joined Wisconsin ethanol supporters in front of Badger State Ethanol today to call on Congress for a comprehensive energy bill that includes ethanol as part of a clean energy future for the U.S.
Along with representatives from Growth Energy, a national group of ethanol supporters, the Wisconsin Corn Growers Association and the American Lung Association in Wisconsin, Rae spoke to media about the ways ethanol can curb our nation’s dependence on foreign oil, create local jobs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
“No job has ever been sent overseas because of ethanol, no war has ever been fought to protect it, and no ecosystem has ever been destroyed because of it,” said Rae. “Ethanol is the only viable alternative to oil available now, and expanding access by increasing the blend wall is essential for our nation’s economy and environment.”
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been considering raising the limit of ethanol blended in gasoline to 15 percent (E15), but recently delayed their decision, for a second time, until early fall.
In addition to approving E15, the supporters are asking Congress to:
* Create an infrastructure that allows American motorists to choose alternative fuels by requiring all cars sold in the U.S. to be “flex-fuel” vehicles that can use any blend of ethanol and gasoline up to E85
* Support significantly wider use of “blender pumps” at gas stations so motorists can choose for themselves the most suitable fuel at the best value
* Ensure the construction of dedicated ethanol pipelines to move the fuel quickly and cost-effectively across the country
* Move quickly to renew the import tariff and blenders’ tax credit, which enable our industry to grow without interference from subsidized foreign oil
Tuesday’s press conference was one of several being held across the country in recent days designed to remind Congress of the importance of ethanol in the nation’s energy future.
The Wisconsin Bio Industry Alliance is a diverse group of businesses, environmental groups, and statewide and local organizations that have come together to build both public and legislative awareness of the Bio Industry in Wisconsin.
For more information about the Alliance, or to find out how to join, please visit our website: http://www.wisconsinbioindustry.com.
