Canadian Renewable Fuels Association

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Myth Busters

Myth:

Ethanol and Biodiesel production are a boon only to the agricultural industry.

There is no environmental benefit to using renewable fuels.

Renewable fuel production consumes enormous amounts of fresh water.

Renewable Fuels production is using up crops that are needed for food.

Biofuels are consuming agricultural products that are needed to feed the world’s hungry.

Using Ethanol and Biodiesel will negatively affect the performance of my vehicle’s engine.

Fact:

More than 14,000 new direct and indirect jobs have been created to support construction of new ethanol and biodiesel production facilities across Canada. Each year, 1,000 or more new jobs are created to support ongoing operations of renewable fuels facilities in Canada.

Study after study has demonstrated that Biofuels create fewer greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) than traditional gasoline, thereby contributing to the fight against global warming. For instance, Ethanol reduces GHGs by as much as 62% and Biodiesel reduces GHGs by 99%. Both renewable fuels also reduce tailpipe carbon monoxide emissions and fine particulate matter emissions, helping to combat pollution.

Most ethanol plants use less water in an entire year than is required to produce one Saturday newspaper. And most of the water used in an ethanol facility gets recycled and reused. By way of comparison, the production of a single barrel of crude oil (55 gallons) requires the use of 1851 gallons of fresh water.

Ethanol is made from industrial corn, which is neither grown for nor eaten by people. Biodiesel in Canada is primarily made from recycled animal fats.

According to the UN, the world produces at least twice the grains required to feed the planet’s population. The real challenge is one of public policy – of distribution, infrastructure, corruption and local politics.

Blended gasoline – which include up to 10% Ethanol – can safely be used today in all cars with no adverse effects. New E85 vehicles are built to safely use blends that incorporate up to 85% Ethanol.