Energy, Biofuels & Climate Change

Give credit to US EPA

Fossil fuels such as coal, natural gas, and oil provide most of the energy used in the United States but also contribute to climate change and other environmental problems. In September 2009 EPA and the Department of Transportation’s National Highway Safety Administration proposed a national program that would reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve fuel economy for new cars and trucks sold in the United States.  And in December 2009, EPA’s administrator signed two findings that assessed the possible impact of climate change on human health and declared greenhouse gases a threat to public health and welfare. Activities are underway to begin to inventory and regulate emissions of greenhouse gases.

Adapting to possible effects of climate change will be critical to support environmental protection and economic growth. EPA's global change and climate programs provide timely and useful information and decision support tools to help policy makers and resource managers adapt to a changing climate. EPA’s Global Change Research Program helped support development ofAlaska’s Adaptation Strategy, one of the most comprehensive strategies developed by any state.  This strategy covers public infrastructure, health and culture, natural systems, and economic activities.  Alaska has also published reports om its mitigation strategy and research needs .

Efforts are underway in the Unites States to promote renewable energy sources and the sustainable production of biofuels.  The sustainability of the biofuels supply chain from feedstock production to end use will determine the degree to which biofuels reach their full environmental potential and reduce reliance on petroleum. EPA is finalizing a new Renewable Fuel Standard for 2010 and beyond.  In 2010, EPA will launch a new research program to assess possible environmental and health impacts resulting from expanding use of biofuels derived from different feedstocks and will prepare a report mandated by Congress on current and potential future impacts of biofuels on the environment.