Commendable Movement toward Decrease of Greenhouse Gases

Two announcements today should spur interest in the development of advanced biofuels: EPA's finding that greenhouse gases (including CO2) pose a threat to public health and welfare, and movement on ethanol producers' request for EPA authorization to include up to 15% ethanol (including cellulosic ethanol).

The public has an opportunity to comment on EPA's GHG findings. From an advanced biofuels development standpoint, the Obama Administration should write and implement regulations reflecting these findings as soon as possible. The US Supreme Court has recognized EPA's authority under the Clean Air Act to regulate GHG, including CO2, so there is no need to wait for additional Congressional action.

Advanced biofuels are defined (in the Renewable Fuel Standards) and designed--from conception to cultivation to harvest and production--to reduce the amount of GHG resulting from transportation fuel and energy production. Clear regulations on processes that are not as clean, green and sustainable will lead to the public, investors, growers and energy producers taking a closer look at advanced biofuels. This should spur investment in this nacent industry to bring out its great potential.

Similarly, if studies show that today's engines can purr right along using up to 15% ethanol (up from the 10% currently authorized) increasing the size of the available market, then cellulosic ethanol development and production can increase as well. And, then, who knows, maybe investment in truly advanced "drop in" biofuels will get a kick in the pants, too.