WBIA Applauds EPA’s Approval of E15 in 2001 and Newer Model Years
Contact: Joshua Morby - 414.344.1733
MILWAUKEE, Wis. – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today announced that it has approved blends of up to 15 percent ethanol in 2001 to 2006 model year vehicles. The decision follows EPA approval of E15 in 2007 model year and newer vehicles last October.
“This decision is great news for Wisconsin’s ethanol producers, our environment, and our economy,” said Joshua Morby, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Bio Industry Alliance (WBIA). “Study after study has proven that E15 is safe for use in all vehicles, and by allowing these blends, the EPA has paved the way for consumers to take advantage of the benefits higher ethanol blends offer.”
The newest EPA decision applies to 86 million vehicles nationwide. Combined with its decision on 2007 or newer model year vehicles, 130 million total vehicles – or 54 percent of all vehicles are the road – can use blends of 15 percent ethanol and 85 percent gasoline.
Over the past few years, multiple studies have been done to examine the effects of E15 on engines. Among those studies is one conducted by the U.S. Department of Energy that concluded there were no significant changes in vehicle drivability when E15 was used instead of traditional gasoline.
Another study by North Dakota State University last year outlined the positive effects E15 would have on the nation’s economy, including creating 136,000 new jobs and generating an additional $24.4 billion in economic activity. The use of E15 would also displace nearly 7 billion gallons of gasoline from imported oil.
“Biofuels like ethanol reduce greenhouse gas emissions while simultaneously growing our state economy and improving our energy independence,” Morby said. “We hope the EPA will immediately begin examining the effects of E15 on all vehicles, so we can further capitalize on the benefits of ethanol for our state and our country.”
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.
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