WASHINGTON, DC – Ethanol and other biofuels produced from plants in the Chesapeake Bay watershed can create 18,000 jobs and prevent millions of pounds of runoff, according to a new report released today by the Chesapeake Bay Commission and the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture.
“This report underscores the undeniable contribution of agriculture and ethanol production to strengthening our nation’s economy, greening our environment and enhancing energy security,” said Tom Buis, CEO of Growth Energy. “Expanding the sustainable production of ethanol will continue to be a powerful force for economic development in communities across the country while protecting our most valuable natural resources.”
The study, Chesapeake Biofuel Policies – Balancing Energy, Economy and Environment, found that production of biomass can reduce erosion, absorb excess fertilizer from idle farm fields and capture carbon dioxide as they grow.
Further, harvesting plants such as switchgrass, planting winter crops such as barley and rye on unused fields and planting fast-growing trees like willow and poplar can create more than 18,000 jobs and 500 million gallons of fuel.
###
About Growth Energy
Growth Energy is a group committed to the promise of agriculture and growing America’s economy through cleaner, greener energy. Growth Energy members recognize America needs a new ethanol approach. Through smart policy reform and a proactive grassroots campaign, Growth Energy promotes reducing greenhouse gas emissions, expanding the use of ethanol in gasoline, decreasing our dependence on foreign oil, and creating American jobs at home. More information can be found at GrowthEnergy.org.