Advanced biofuels can play a key role in Delaware’s effort to reduce emissions
Author: Michael McAdams
Following California, Gov. John Carney took a major step to reduce Delaware’s carbon emissions when he directed state regulators to require that all new passenger vehicles sold in the state be electric by 2035. While the governor’s decision sets the state on the path towards emission reductions, this mandate risks being incomplete without fully addressing the unique nature transportation sector emissions. Meaningfully reducing emissions from Delaware’s transportation sector will require a more comprehensive approach that embraces both the long-term promise of electric vehicles, along with technologies, such as low-carbon advanced biofuels, to support older, non-electric vehicles unaffected by the new regulations and the heavy industry vehicles - airplanes, ships and long-haul trucks - that power the state’s economy. Delaware is no stranger to setting lofty climate ambitions. In 2017, the state joined the U.S. Climate Alliance and began working toward at least a twenty-six percent in carbon emissions by 2025. Much of this effort hinges on widespread electrification. It is incumbent for policymakers to take bold action to slow climate change and transition Delaware to a lower carbon economy. EVs are an important part of the solution to this challenge. But to make an even more significant impact will require support for and utilization of low-carbon alternatives for the full suite of passenger and industry vehicles and liquid fuels that power them.