There is growing pressure to reduce the amount of oil-based products used and convert to alternative fuel. Oil is a limited natural resource, which requires drilling and other environmental concerns in the end-to-end process of converting it to gasoline. There are two different alternative fuels available on the market: biodiesel and ethanol. Existing diesel engines can run on biodiesel and existing gas-powered engines can be converted to ethanol.
Foreign Dependency Reduction
The United States currently imports 60 percent of its oil to meet domestic demands, according to QuoteOil.com. By converting to alternative fuels, it lessens the oil consumption demand. The less demand, the less dependent we are upon foreign countries to provide us with our primary fuel source. Both biodiesel and ethanol are produced in the United States without the need to import from foreign countries.
Reduction in Air Pollutants
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the greenhouse effect is increased temperatures of the earth's air and oceans resulting from specific gases in the atmosphere, which trap the sun's energy instead of allowing heat through. Most pollutants released from a gasoline-powered engine produce these specific gases such as carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide, adding to the greenhouse effect. According to Alternative Fuel Source, biodiesel produces 40 percent to 80 percent fewer air pollutants than gas. Ethanol can reduce air pollutants up to 50 percent.
Renewable Resources
Because corn and other vegetables required can be grown over and over again, biodiesel and ethanol are considered renewable resources. Oil is a limited natural resource. There are growing concerns about the rate of oil used, which is continually increasing and exceeding the rate of production. You can even grow or make your own biodiesel at home. Some people simply stop by their local hamburger restaurants to collect the leftover grease for their fuel.
Less Engine Wear
Biodiesel has proven to cause less wear and tear on your diesel engine due to its natural lubrication. It helps to lube engine parts such as injectors and fuel pumps, which wear over time due to friction. Many diesel car manufacturers also approve a use of 5 percent biodiesel with 95 percent diesel as a result. According to FuelEconomy.gov, engines that rely on ethanol for power have proven to be more resistant to engine knock, as well.
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