Happy Energy Independence Day
Posted: July 3, 2008
By producing a few billion gallons more ethanol and using a little bit less fuel on the road, America could be energy independent through the Fourth of July every year.
Over 35 biofuels, agricultural and environmental organizations are calling attention to the idea that America is on the road to energy independence. A joint statement from the groups points out that America could effectively supply its own transportation fuel needs for 186 days in 2009 — equivalent to January 1 through July 4 — meaning that imports would be needed for less than half the year. That can be achieved if each person would conserve just 21 gallons of fuel in the coming year and if we would increase ethanol production by about five billion more gallons.
The groups are calling for unity to achieve this goal. “To find true and long-lasting sustainable solutions, corporate self interests, political polarization, and agendas must be set aside. We must band together in the fight for Energy Independence here in the United States and around the globe.”
Among the many groups supporting Energy Independence Day are the National Corn Growers Association, Ethanol Promotion and Information Council, Renewable Fuels Association, Renewable Fuels Now, National Farmers Union, National Sorghum Producers, National Wheat Growers Association, and the National Ethanol Vehicle Coalition.