NRDC, RFA: Science a Must for EPA Decisions on RFS
The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) and the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) called on the Administration to follow a transparent, science-based process in determining the rules for the Renewable Fuels Standard (RFS), including the key issue of greenhouse gas emissions.
"We must ensure biofuels are done right," said Franz Matzner, acting legislative director for NRDC. "A key step is for EPA to accurately determine the global warming emissions associated with biofuels by using the best science and economic data available."
Signing a joint letter to EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson and Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Peter Orzag, the groups underscored the need to move quickly to get the rule for RFS on the street. Also emphasized was the need to provide the full spectrum of data, assumptions, and methodologies used to design the program, which mandates 36 billion gallons of biofuel production by 2022.
"Proven science must be the driver behind any effort to calculate the global warming emission of any fuel, including petroleum and biofuels," said RFA President and Chief Executive Officer Bob Dinneen. "It is vital that EPA provide full transparency into its process and allow for informed comments on their approach. We urge EPA to issue its proposed rule post haste and begin the process of public commentary."