Japan’s push to reduce carbon emissions could open new export opportunities for the U.S. ethanol industry. As the country moves toward wider use of E20 fuel, Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen is leading a trade mission to Japan to highlight the state’s role in producing lower-carbon fuels. He says that carbon capture is a major priority for Japan and has been a focus for Japanese officials.
The trade mission also includes stops in the Philippines, where ethanol demand is growing for different reasons. Chief Industries President DJ Eihusen says while the Philippines isn’t as focused on carbon reduction, its decision to move directly to E20 could still create ripple effects that benefit U.S. ethanol producers.
Asian countries like Japan have been pushing for a cut in their greenhouse gas emissions. Consequently, they have been turning to cleaner alternatives to traditional energy sources. This has created a market opportunity for U.S. ethanol producers, and ongoing collaboration between the respective governments will be vital to meeting the growing international demand for lower-carbon fuels.
