drivemecrazy

Here are the third and fourth myths about E85:

Third, it is said that using ethanol as a fuel will eliminate global warming. At first, I thought it would be a yes but it is otherwise. Using ethanol as a fuel would not make the carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions to reach almost zero. Reducing CO2 emissions is just the other face of the coin. However, it should be noted that crops where ethanol is gathered from take in CO2 during their growth. When they are harvested, the number of plants that would help reduce CO2 in the atmosphere is lessened. Plus the CO2 they once took in is put back to the atmosphere when it is burned by the engine. Aside from that, people tend to forget that modern farming had led to the use of diesel-powered equipment that emits greenhouse gases. Also, the process of distilling ethanol uses electricity generated from coal, which is a contributor of greenhouse emissions too.

Lastly, it is said that ethanol is cheaper than gasoline. If we really talk about the price, then the answer is yes. However, when we try to look at the larger picture, we will realize that it is not after all. It is said that ethanol, no matter how much you pay for it than regular gasoline, contains lesser energy. Meaning, your vehicle with a gallon of E85 would not run as far as with a gallon of gasoline. Plus, the fuel economy will decrease by 20 to 30 percent.

So that would be all. But before I go, I would just make myself clear. The purpose of this post is not to discourage people to use E85 nor hate it. I just want to give information. Besides, people deserve the right to know both faces of the coin, especially if what is at stake is the condition of the environment, their vehicles, and financial capabilities. Just what is observed in journalism, a journalist should feed the public both sides of the story. It is up to the people where their judgment would lie.