July 8, 2008 – “The leaders of the G8 nations clearly understand the need of world’s nations and peoples to develop, produce and use renewable fuels like ethanol. On behalf of America’s burgeoning ethanol industry and the farmers upon which it relies, we welcome the challenge to increase the sustainable production and use of biofuels. The G8 statement clearly recognizes the goal of biofuels policy which is to build upon the existing industry while moving aggressively to second generation production from wood chips, switchgrass, garbage and other cellulosic materials.

“Clearly, the G8 leaders recognize that soaring crude oil prices, commodity speculation, poor weather conditions and greater demand have contributed significantly to higher food prices. This is another reason why the G8’s decision on food security and protecting the environment incorporates the use of biofuels and the development of second generation biofuel technologies.

“As Hafez Ghanem, FAO assistant director general remarked after the UN Food Summit, ‘the world has enough resources and the right technology to produce enough crops to meet the demand for food and biofuel.’

“This policy statement is particularly strong because it recognizes the important contribution biofuels are making to the world economy, to replacing oil, and to improving the environment, while having a minimal and manageable impact on the price of food.”