Colorado Corn Cultivating Opportunities

A new study by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency confirms corn ethanol additives in gasoline have helped clear the air, ground and water, and the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) hailed this latest report as further proof that ethanol is good not just for energy security, but a cleaner environment.

“Once again, we have solid evidence of the many environmental benefits of ethanol,” said Ron Litterer, NCGA president. “The research is clear, and our growers are excited about meeting the demands of an expanded renewable fuels standard while still providing ample food and feed for domestic and export needs.”

The EPA study looks at the success of clean-fuels programs implemented by the agency, including the replacement of MTBE with ethanol. MTBE (methyl tertiary butyl ether) has been a cause for concern because of groundwater contamination.

According to the study, these programs exceeded expectations in reducing ozone pollutants and air toxics, and the research found that emission reductions were often significantly greater than regulatory requirements. In 1996, about 11 percent of the RFG sold contained ethanol while virtually all the remainder contained MTBE. By 2005, the ethanol share increased to about 53 percent, with corresponding decreases in MTBE.