As the demand for increased production of homegrown, renewable forms of fuels has grown, so has the need to develop and produce them. USDA Rural Development provides opportunities to producers to develop these fuels through the Biorefinery Assistance Program. The program provides loan guarantees to encourage the development, construction, and retrofitting of commercial-scale biorefineries.
The Biorefinery Assistance Program, which assists in the development of new and emerging technologies for the development of advanced biofuels, aims to accomplish the following:
- Increase U.S. energy independence.
- Promote resource conservation, public health, and the environment.
- Diversify markets for agricultural and forestry products and agricultural waste.
- Create jobs and boost economic development in rural America.
What Can You Do?
There are many ways that you can make a positive impact on the environment. One way is to encourage your student-aged child to educate themselves about the issues of climate change, participate in the Student Climate & Conservation Congress, or take the Infographic Challenge. Another is to take part in either The Great Energy Challenge or Climate Science Day and know the reality, risks and response to climate change. Yet another, and of the biggest, is forming environmentally-minded driving habits:
- No matter which fuel you use in your vehicle, the most important thing you can do is to reduce your consumption. If possible, consider walking or riding your bike to your destination. Can you carpool? Can you take public transportation? Are there any shorter routes you can be taking? Can you work from home?
- Keep your vehicles properly maintained. Properly inflated tires, clean air filters, recommended motor oils, and regular tuneups all contribute to better gas mileage.
- Turn your engine off instead of idling—especially when pumping gas. While driving, avoid speeding and aggressive driving. Avoid peak traffic hours. Accelerate slowly and use cruise control on long trips.
- When it comes time to buy a new vehicle, pay special attention to gas mileage. Consider buying a hybrid. If you own multiple vehicles and are not planning to buy a new vehicle, consider driving the vehicle with the better gas mileage for the bulk of your trips.
- Did you know that there are currently 2,646 Ethanol Stations (Offering E85) in the United States? Want to use an easy way to find them and to plan your alternative fuels trip?
Travel safely and have a great time!
USDA.gov - Biorefinery Assistance Program