Ethanol

While the Ethanol issue has been mostly fought in the U.S., it is important for Canada to be aware of the problem as government in Canada is also slowly increasing renewal fuel standards. Below are some details of the issue we have worked on in the U.S. The introduction of E15 into the marketplace in the U.S. is a great concern to the recreational boating industry. 

One of the greatest concerns facing the recreational boating industry today relates to the Renewable Fuel Standard, specifically the introduction of E15 into the marketplace. E15 is fuel that is 15 percent ethanol in volume. The fuel currently stocked at the majority of our nation’s gas pumps is E10, or 10 percent ethanol.

The EPA has introduced ethanol as an energy-saving initiative and an alternative to petroleum-based fuels.  However, ethanol actually has lower energy content than gasoline. That means that about one-third more ethanol is required to travel the same distance as on gasoline.

The potential for consumers to use fuel with a percentage of ethanol above 10 percent in boat engines is detrimental to the U.S. recreational boating industry, an important economic driver for large parts of the country. There are serious and well-documented human safety, environmental, and technology concerns associated with ethanol blends over 10 percent in recreational boat fuel tanks and engines.

NMMA is hard at work to prevent this dangerous fuel from affecting our industry. The documents below explain just how NMMA is working with the EPA, Congress and key industry stakeholders to make a difference.

NMMA Canada participated in several technical webinars presented by Environment and Climate Change Canada regarding the Clean Fuel Standard and the proposal of alternative fuel supplies such as E15. The boating industry is supportive of sound conservation policies to protect Canada’s lands and waterways. However, similarly to our efforts in the U.S., we are outlining to the government that the expansion of ethanol blends in gasoline should be reviewed closely and special attention needs to be given to how this will impact boat engines and off-road vehicles. Communication to boaters is key.

To read our letter to Environment and Climate Change Canada click here.

To read our most recent submission to Environment and Climate Change Canada regarding the Clean Fuel Standard Regulatory Framework click here.

To read our most recent submission to the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks in Ontario regarding their proposed Increasing Renewable Content in Fuels click here.

 

Alert consumers about the danger of E15 and use these materials in your marketing. Through our partnership with the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI), you’ll find "Look Before You Pump" materials and logos. You’ll also find our “No E15” logo. Materials should be shared with dealers for in-store displays, customer communication, and marketing. Logos can be used to create, or include in, your own marketing materials. NMMA can also order printed materials for you at cost and have them shipped to you.