Blunt Backs Biodiesel Standard in State of the State Address
Missouri could become first in U.S. to have 5 percent biodiesel standard

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Jan. 15, 2008
Contact: Adam Buckallew (573) 635-3819

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Gov. Matt Blunt continued to build on his reputation as a champion for renewable fuels by announcing his support for a statewide 5 percent biodiesel (B-5) standard in his State of the State address to the Missouri General Assembly. The biodiesel standard would provide that all diesel fuel sold in the State of Missouri shall contain a 5 percent blend of biodiesel when it is the same price or less than conventional diesel fuel. In addition to his support of the historic B-5 standard, Blunt has provided unwavering support for the state’s farmer-owned biodiesel industry by fully funding the Missouri Biodiesel Producer Incentive Fund every year he has been in office.

“Governor Blunt has proven his commitment to renewable fuels time and time again,” said Dale R. Ludwig, Missouri Soybean Association (MSA) Executive Director/CEO. “Missouri soybean farmers are fortunate to have such a visionary Governor leading the charge for a statewide biodiesel standard. We need look no further than the rising prices at the gas station to see why we must strengthen our commitment to renewable fuels.”

“We applaud Governor Blunt for recognizing biodiesel’s importance in reducing our dependence on foreign oil, improving air quality, and revitalizing our rural communities,” said MSA President Greg Sharpe, a farmer from Ewing, Mo. “Thanks in large part to Governor Blunt, Missouri is poised to have the best business environment for renewable fuels production in the United States.”

Biodiesel production in Missouri is expected to reach at least 125 million gallons in 2008, easily surpassing the 60 million gallon market that would be created by a 5 percent biodiesel mandate. Missouri has the opportunity to become the first state in the nation to pass and enact a B-5 standard. It can also be the fifth state to pass a biodiesel standard and the second state to implement one. Minnesota currently has a 2 percent biodiesel standard in effect. Louisiana, Oregon and Washington have also passed 2 percent biodiesel standards, but these policies will not take effect until certain in-state production targets are met.

Biodiesel is a clean-burning alternative to conventional diesel fuel that can be blended with conventional diesel fuel at any level. It can be used in diesel engines without any modifications. Biodiesel is simple to use, biodegradable, nontoxic, and essentially free of sulfur and aromatics. It is also the only alternative fuel to complete the health effects testing program of the Clean Air Act. The use of biodiesel in a conventional diesel engines results in substantial reduction of unburned hydrocarbons (ozone precursors), carbon monoxide (poisonous gas), and particulate matter (black smoke from the tailpipe) compared to emissions from petroleum-based diesel fuel. In addition, the exhaust emissions of sulfur oxides and sulfates (major components of acid rain) from biodiesel are essentially eliminated compared to diesel. Finally, biodiesel has the highest “energy balance” of any transportation fuel, alternative or conventional. The DOE/USDA lifecycle analysis shows for every unit of fossil energy it takes to make biodiesel, 3.2 units of energy are gained. This takes into account the planting, harvesting, fuel production, and fuel transportation to the end user.

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© Missouri Soybean Programs
PO Box 104778
3337 Emerald Lane
Jefferson City, MO 65110
Phone: (573) 635-3819
Fax: (573) 635-5122
email: mosoy@mosoy.org