This resolution expresses support for designating May 2025 as "Renewable Fuels Month" to recognize the environmental, economic, and energy independence benefits of renewable fuels like ethanol and biodiesel.
Zachary (Zach) Nunn
Representative
IA-3
This resolution expresses strong support for designating May 2025 as "Renewable Fuels Month." It recognizes the vital role that renewable fuels like ethanol and biodiesel play in reducing carbon emissions and strengthening U.S. energy independence. Furthermore, the bill highlights how these fuels benefit consumers through lower prices and provide significant economic support to rural communities.
Congress Backs Biofuels: May 2025 Set for 'Renewable Fuels Month' Recognition
This resolution is Congress essentially giving a massive thumbs-up to the entire renewable fuels sector, proposing to designate May 2025 as "Renewable Fuels Month." While it’s non-binding—meaning it doesn't change any laws or regulations—it serves as a powerful statement recognizing the deep impact that fuels like ethanol, biodiesel, and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) have on the U.S. economy, energy independence, and the environment.
The Economic Engine in Rural America
When we talk about renewable fuels, we’re talking about serious economic activity rooted in rural America. The resolution highlights that the ethanol industry alone supported over 55,810 direct jobs and contributed over $53 billion to the nation’s GDP in 2024. For a farmer, this is crucial: the demand from ethanol plants adds about $2 in value to every bushel of corn, a 55% boost. This isn't just about farming; it's about manufacturing jobs and stability in communities that depend on agriculture. If you run a small business in a town near a biofuel plant, this industry is a major source of local household income, totaling $28.3 billion across the country.
Cutting Emissions Without Changing Your Engine
One of the biggest points the resolution makes is the environmental benefit. Ethanol cuts greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 44% to 52% compared to standard gasoline. For the average commuter, this means cleaner air without having to change your driving habits or your car. Similarly, advanced fuels like biodiesel and renewable diesel—made from things like recycled cooking oil and soybean oil—cut GHGs by at least 50% and can be used in any existing diesel engine right now. This is a big deal for truckers and construction workers; you don’t need new equipment to be part of the solution.
Fueling Independence and Trade
Beyond the environment, this industry plays a major role in energy security. The resolution notes that using ethanol replaced nearly 630 million barrels of imported crude oil in 2024. That translates directly into less reliance on foreign oil sources, especially those from adversaries. Furthermore, the U.S. is a major exporter of these fuels, with ethanol exports hitting a record 1.93 billion gallons in 2024. This trade balance helps strengthen the dollar and supports the entire supply chain, from the farm to the port.
The Soy and Aviation Connection
The resolution also touches on the agricultural and aviation sectors. Biofuel production uses over 1 billion pounds of soybean oil monthly, which has spurred significant growth in processing capacity, benefiting soybean farmers. Meanwhile, the emerging sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) market is highlighted because, crucially, it performs exactly like regular jet fuel. This means airports and airlines don't need to retrofit infrastructure or planes to start using it—a massive advantage for scaling up cleaner air travel without massive capital investment.