Corn, Cars and Cows (8/21/13)

While ethanol burns cleaner than gasoline, some researchers argue its production makes it less than environmentally friendly. University of California, Davis professor of agricultural economics Colin Carter says ethanol is not a low-carbon fuel in part “because of greenhouse gases put out by other countries that have torn down forests to produce corn.” Pacific Ethanol CEO Neil Koehler claims corn-based fuels are cleaner than petroleum and reduce greenhouse gases. Critics say corn that could be used for feeding livestock is now going into gas tanks, and U.S. ethanol policies may have driven up food prices by 20 to 30 percent. Does corn have a place in powering America’s future? Colin Carter, Professor, Agricultural Economics, UC Davis Neil Koehler, CEO, Pacific Ethanol Michael Marsh, CEO, Western United Dairymen This program was recorded in front of a live audience at The Commonwealth Club of California on August 21, 2013

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