Transportation:
Biodeisel

Our Position: support
Bill Number: HB 4235
Sponsor: Neil Nitz (R)

HB 4235 would require that all diesel fuel sold within the state of Michigan be blended with 2% biodiesel.

Status

5/17/05 - On the House calendar.

4/13/05 - Reported out of House Ag Committee with recommendations for passage by full House.

4/9/05 - Sierra Club faxed position statement in SUPPORT to full House.

2/8/05 - Referred to House Ag Committee.

Action Needed

Let your House Rep know that you'd like him or her to SUPPORT HB 4235. This bill is good for agriculture, public health and the environment. Link to House of Representatives:

http://house.michigan.gov/replist.asp

More information

Link to legislative analysis of this bill:

http://www.legislature.mi.gov/documents/2005-2006/billanalysis/house/pdf/2005-HLA-4235-3.pdf

Contact

Sierra Club - (517) 484-2372

Background

Biodiesel fuel can be derived from used cooking oil or directly from plants – mainly soybeans. Due to federal tax breaks that currently exist for producers of biodeisel, the addition of biodeisel will not increase the cost of fuel. Without the tax break it could add 1-2 cents to the price of a gallon of fuel. The use of biodiesel has a variety of benefits for Michigan residents, including:
Improvements in public health – Biodiesel reduces both the particulate and hydrocarbon emissions from burning diesel fuel. This will be especially important for those areas of the state that do not current meet Clean Air Act standards for ozone and PM 2.5.
Global Warming – The use of biodiesel generates up to 75% less carbon dioxide over its life-cycle when compared to fossil-fuel based fuels.
Balance of Trade – Michigan imports 96% of its petroleum products. Using domestically produced fuel will reduce the flow of dollars out of the state.
Rural economic development – Value-added agriculture will help efforts at farmland preservation in Michigan.
Less Engine wear – Biodiesel contains natural lubricants that can reduce maintenance cost for its users.

Sierra Club Perspective

Moving toward domestically produced fuels is one step toward a more sound energy policy. The Sierra Club supports requiring biodiesel fuels due to the public health benefits and the impact it will have on protecting farmland in Michigan.

Transportation: Biodeisel