Vilsack Watching EPA Greenhouse Gas Decision

The court mandated decision by EPA declaring greenhouse gases contribute to air pollution that may endanger public health or welfare may make agriculture a “great benefactor”. At least that’s the thought of Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. Vilsack told reporters Tuesday that - the capacity to use our land creates tremendous opportunities to offset greenhouse gas emissions in other sectors of the economy.

Still, the question remains – how will congress handle the situation? Vilsack says, his hope is – the agriculture offset opportunity is the focus of provisions in the law.
Vilsack predicted – it can be anywhere from 20 to 25 percent of the solution. He said he would continue to advocate that agriculture play an important and significant role in reducing greenhouse gas’ impact.

As for the possibility that EPA might utilize indirect land use calculations when making new renewable fuels standard rules, Vilsack said, the concept requires – a good deal of study and review. The Secretary said USDA’s concern is that – whatever calculations, if any, are used are used in a way that accurately reflects the contribution biofuels will make to reducing greenhouse gases.