WASHINGTON, D.C. – Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor welcomed the long-awaited release of a new study commissioned by California Air Resources Board (CARB), which showcases the air quality benefits available to California by adopting E15, a 15 percent ethanol blended fuel. Authored by researchers at the University of California-Riverside, the wide-ranging report was supported by Growth Energy and other clean energy stakeholders. It examined regulated emissions, particulates, toxics, and other factors that contribute to ozone formation, confirming that “emissions trended lower for E15” compared to standard fuel blends.
“CARB’s report adds to the vast trove of public, private, and academic research illustrating the vital role that higher ethanol blends play in protecting our air, our climate, and our health,” said Skor. “No other solution offers the same immediate benefits in the fight against particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and smog-forming pollutants linked to cancer, as well as neurological, cardiovascular, and reproductive damage. Drivers across the country are looking for better options at the pump, and E15 delivers the savings they need and the cleaner air they deserve. California has long been a leader on clean energy, but it has lagged behind most other states in expanding access to E15 fuel blends. Today’s report should serve as all the motivation CARB needs to accelerate biofuel adoption and fast-track progress on the state’s clean energy goals.”
Highlights from CARB’s E15 study include:
- Particulate matter mass emissions showed statistically significant reductions from E10 to E15, ranging from 16% to 54%.
- The weighted CO emissions showed a statistically significant reduction of 17% compared to E10 across the fleet of 20 vehicles.
You can read the full study here.
Background
Growth Energy has continued to promote the benefits of higher biofuel blends for use in California and has specifically called on the state to approve E15 for use. Recently, Growth Energy submitted comments to CARB highlighting the role higher blends of biofuels play in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, addressing air quality, and cutting consumer costs from current and future California vehicles.