EESI Opposes EPA Approval of Invasive Species for Biofuels

The EPA is in the process of approving a new type of biomass, "Giant Reed" or Arundo donax , to qualify as an eligible biofuel feedstock under the Renewable Fuel Standard. Yet a number of states list this plant as a noxious weed and a highly invasive, non-native species which can endanger local biological diversity and ecosystems. EESI joined in a letter opposing approval of this species to the Office of Management and Budget, which is reviewing the EPA’s proposed rule.

On October 4, EESI joined with 95 other organizations opposing the EPA’s proposed rule, observing that " Given the high risk of invasion, providing incentives under the Renewable Fuel Standard for the cultivation of Arundo donax has the potential for serious unintended ecological and economic impacts. Under Executive Order 13112, EPA should not provide production incentives for high risk feedstocks such as Arundo donax without determining that the benefits "clearly outweigh" the costs. Given the difficulty of eradicating Arundo donax and the extent of potential environmental damages, it is highly unlikely that the benefits would clearly outweigh the costs ."

To read the letter, please click here .

For more information, link to the National Wildlife Federation’s blog on the Arundo rule here .
Earlier this year, the National Wildlife Federation released the report entitled Growing Risk: Addressing the Invasive Potential of Bioenergy Feedstocks .