Michael Grunwell’s sweeping indictment of the biofuels movement in “The Clean Energy Scam” was the most stunning piece of misinformation I have seen published in a major news outlet. The article laid the blame for everything from destabilization in Pakistan to deforestation in Brazil at the feet of biofuel. Astonishingly, Grunwell did not quote a single supporter of the cleaner-burning fuel in the cover article!

The simple facts are these:
• There is a clear scientific consensus that vehicles using E85 or biodiesel emit significantly less air pollution than those using traditional fuels.
• A typical E85 user prevents 4 tons of lifecycle carbon dioxide (CO2) and other harmful pollutants from entering our air every year.
• The National Renewable Energy Laboratory reports that biodiesel (B100) use reduces lifecycle carbon dioxide emissions by 78%.

Space does not allow for me to point out the many errors in fact, rampant speculation, and use of discredited data and opinion contained in Grunswell’s article – I’m sure others will step up to that task. Let me just say that the American Lung Association of the Upper Midwest remains a strong supporter of cleaner-burning biofuels such as E85 and biodiesel, and we reject its unfair labeling as a “scam.”

Harold Wimmer, CEO
American Lung Association of the Upper Midwest
SPRINGFIELD, IL