American employees in the biofuel industry are losing jobs due to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) policy that is not supporting growth, according to Allen Schaeffer, Executive Director of the Engine Technology Forum. In a letter addressed to EPA Administrator Michael Regan on May 24, 2024, the Forum reiterated their appeal for robust, growth-oriented 2026 Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) volumes to be proposed and finalized by November. This call was supported by feedstock providers and advanced biofuel producers who emphasized the need for policies that support both the economy and the environment.
The disappointing future volumes for biomass-based diesel in the RFS have led to production levels that are below expectations, resulting in job losses and closures of production lines. The Forum believes that every diesel engine, vehicle, and machine can benefit from using low-carbon fuels, and consumers and fleets should have the choice to use these fuels to help meet climate goals. They stress that delays in providing these fuels to consumers are missed opportunities that hinder progress towards a sustainable future.
The national education campaign launched by the Forum aims to raise awareness about the importance of growth-oriented renewable fuel volumes as their use can immediately reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The forum has been advocating for this cause since its formation in 2019, calling on policymakers and industry leaders to prioritize this issue as a way forward towards a more sustainable future.
