(August 10, 2009) Washington – In the debate around the indirect impacts of the energy decisions we make, the powers that be seem content to ignore the impacts of our increasing dependence on petroleum.

Last week, the Renewable Fuels Association sought to illustrate some of the environmental impacts associated with sourcing our foreign oil needs. This week, the RFA would like to take a look at the environmental dangers posed by producing and transporting conventional oil sources halfway around the globe.

From the Say What? Files:

“…from what we know today, (the indirect effect) is not very large for the other fuels.”
– CARB Deputy Executive Officer Mike Scheible at April 23 LCFS hearing

“The environmental damage done by our dependence on petroleum is clearly evident,” said Renewable Fuels Association President Bob Dinneen. “Despite this consensus, those seeking to impose greenhouse gas penalties for indirect impacts of fuels are zeroing in on biofuels while giving oil a free pass. This is a dangerous precedent that will undermine asserted goals to reduce oil dependence, mitigate climate change impacts, and develop a renewable energy economy in this country.”