Oregon leads way for use of renewable biofuels
From our weekly issue dated November 21, 2007
In July 2007, Oregon became the first state to provide incentives for the local production of feedstocks for alternative, renewable fuels.
The state also enacted a renewable fuels standard requiring the blending of biodiesel and ethanol in all diesel and gasoline sold at the pump. “Fueling Oregon with Sustainable Biofuels,” a new report from the Oregon Environmental Council (OEC), discusses “how to best seize this opportunity through responsible, sustainable practices.”
Oregon’s diverse agricultural industry and strong environmental policy framework make it uniquely placed to become a leader in the development of sustainable biofuels, said OEC. The establishment of incentives and a stable market for biofuels empowers Oregon farmers and businesses to develop these renewable fuels locally, the organization said. It added:
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“In many cases, renewable fuels development can foster new Oregon-grown industries and add an income stream to growers.
“However, not all biofuels are equal from a sustainability perspective. ‘Fueling Oregon with Sustainable Biofuels’ makes the case that biofuels can and must be produced -- from ‘field to wheel’ -- with environmentally and socially sound practices. The report suggests ways to maximize the environmental potential of biofuels, from practices on the farm to practices in biorefineries.”
The report discusses the types of biofuels feedstocks feasible in Oregon. It suggests which might be most beneficial from social and environmental perspectives.
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To capitalize on Oregon’s potential for producing clean, renewable fuels, the report recommends that policymakers and representatives of the biofuels industry adhere to the following principles:
*Support only biofuels that reduce greenhouse gas emissions on a life-cycle assessment basis.
*Process biofuels with minimum fossil fuel inputs.
*Protect air and water quality.
*Grow biofuel feedstocks using sustainable agricultural practices.
*Conserve water.
*Protect biodiversity.
*Avoid conversion of native ecosystems.
Support socially responsible and locally owned biofuels production.
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Said OEC, “In the near-term, one of the most important steps the state can take is to adopt a Low-Carbon Fuel Standard, which would require all fuel providers to gradually reduce the greenhouse gas intensity of the fuels they sell.
“We hope that ‘Fueling Oregon with Sustainable Biofuels’ will provide the analysis and tools needed to
help make Oregon a national leader in sustainable biofuels production.
“Biofuels are only as sustainable as the agricultural and industrial processes that produce them.”
Added Chris Hagerbaumer, OEC director of programs, “Biofuels can clearly provide positive environmental benefits.
“Oregon’s goal should be to maximize those benefits and mitigate any negative environmental consequences of feedstock production and fuel processing.”
