OMAHA, Neb. - Despite reports of a well-publicized and well-funded anti-ethanol misinformation campaign, an overwhelming majority of consumers still believe the U.S. is too dependent on foreign sources of oil.
A national survey released today, commissioned by the Ethanol Promotion and Information Council (EPIC), finds that nearly a third of respondents indicated that their attitude toward ethanol has become more favorable over the last six months; 62 percent reported their opinions stayed the same.
A national survey released today, commissioned by the Ethanol Promotion and Information Council (EPIC), finds that nearly a third of respondents indicated that their attitude toward ethanol has become more favorable over the last six months; 62 percent reported their opinions stayed the same. "Consumers see through the smoke and mirrors of Big Oil," said Dr. Robert Zubrin, author of recently published Energy Victory: Winning the War on Terror by Breaking Free of Oil. "The status quo is unacceptable. Big Oil's song and dance on alternative energy must end."
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While the price of oil hits record levels, the petroleum industry continues its negative campaign against ethanol, specifically E85, a blend of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline. The survey found that 79 percent of respondents agreed that the government should require cleaner and more efficient sources of energy.
"The petroleum industry has perpetuated this myth that food costs will skyrocket due to ethanol demand," said Reece Nanfito, senior director of marketing for the Ethanol Promotion and Information Council (EPIC). "All the while, homeowners worry about winter heating oil bills, and commuters realign their budgets to deal with rising gasoline prices." A recent Consumer Federation of America report found that over the last five years, household energy expenditures have nearly doubled, while food costs have only slightly increased.
Gasoline prices are up 85 cents a gallon compared to one year ago. A strong majority of those surveyed, 63 percent, are worried that there will be an oil shortage in the future.
"Consumers are seeking solutions to a failed energy policy," said Zubrin. "If we are going to stop the oil cartel from sending prices through the roof, we need to break their monopoly, and the way to do that is with alternative fuels."
Survey Methodology:
A nationally representative panel was used to draw a random sampling of potential respondents. The panel consists of pre-screened individuals who have indicated a willingness to participate in survey research. The online survey produced 1101 respondents, with a margin of error of +/- 3.7% percentage points. The research was conducted by Luth Research. For a full report, visit http://drivingethanol.org/news_events/consumer_awareness.aspx
About Renewable Fuels Now:
Renewable Fuels Now is a coalition of associations and corporations that support the need for energy independence through domestically produced renewable fuels. This Coalition believes that a balanced energy policy is essential for America's future. For more information, visit http://www.renewablefuelsnow.org/
About EPIC:
The Ethanol Promotion and Information Council is a nonprofit organization of ethanol producers and industry leaders who have come together to spread the word about the benefits of ethanol through information and promotional programs. To learn more about ethanol, visit http://www.drivingethanol.org/ and http://www.floridaneedsethanol.com/.
Dr. Robert Zubrin:
Author of Energy Victory: Winning the War on Terror by Breaking Free of Oil. For more information about the book, visit: http://www.energyvictory.net/
