Biofuels

Biofuels - Clean Energy from Crops

Click here to see the complete 2000-2001 report (PDF document)

Biofuels are a renewable source of transportation fuel made from domestic agricultural products.The two most common biofuels in the U.S.are ethanol made from corn and biodiesel made from soybean oil.Biofuels boost the U.S.economy and strengthen our energy security by reducing our dependence on foreign oil.In addition,they offer environmental advantages over fossil fuels because their emissions are less damaging to the atmosphere.

Monsanto is actively involved in helping promote and encourage the use of biofuels and other types of bioenergy. As part of the new Monsanto Pledge,Monsanto has formed a dedicated team that will research ways to use biotech- nology and advanced plant breeding techniques to improve the quantity and quality of bioenergy,including finding ways to improve the economic and environmental benefits of biofuels.

In addition,the company is partnering with others to increase public awareness and understanding of biofuels, including our recent first U.S.corporate order to General Motors for pick-up trucks that use ethanol-based E85 fuel. Monsanto will purchase 50 General Motors E85 Chevrolet Silverado pick-ups in 2002 and eventually E85 vehicles will account for the majority of the company 's fleet.

Ethanol is the most widely used biofuel today.More than 1.6 billion gallons were added to gasoline in the U.S.in 2000 and that number is expected to top 1.8 billion gallons in 2001,reducing reliance on imported oil.The addition of ethanol improves vehicle performance and reduces air pollution by increasing oxygenation to improve the air quality impact of tailpipe emissions.The Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 mandated the sale of oxygenated fuels in areas of the country with unhealthy levels of carbon monoxide.

Biodiesel is manufactured from most vegetable oils,animal fats,and recycled greases and is typically used as a fuel additive in 20 percent blends (B20)with petroleum diesel in diesel engines.Biodiesel can help extend the diesel fuel supply much as ethanol has the gasoline supply. According to the National Biofuels Board,the use of biodiesel produces about 80 percent less carbon dioxide emissions and almost 100 percent less sulfur dioxide. Burning of biodiesel provides over a 90 percent reduction in unburned hydrocarbons and a 75-90 percent reduction in aromatic hydrocarbons.

Click here to see the complete 2000-2001 report (PDF document)