WASHINGTON, D.C.— Consumer Reports (CR) is urging the Senate Committee on Environment & Public Works (EPW) to develop a federal Clean Fuel Standard (CFS). The nonprofit consumer research, testing and advocacy organization said a CFS is a common-sense solution to decarbonizing the transportation sector that brings greater innovation and stability to the fuels market.
A clean fuel standard is designed to decrease the carbon intensity of our transportation fuels and incentivize the development of low-carbon alternatives, which can gradually reduce petroleum dependency and achieve significant health, environmental, and climate benefits for all.
The committee will meet today at 10 a.m. ET for a hearing on The Future of Low Carbon Transportation Fuels and Consideration for a National Clean Fuels Program.
In advance of the committee hearing, CR sent a letter to EPW Chairman Tom Carper (D-DE) and Ranking Member Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), noting that a clean fuel standard can help alleviate high gas prices by providing more fuel options for consumers that are not tied directly to fluctuating oil prices.
“A clean fuel standard is a fuel-neutral, technology-agnostic, market-based approach. A forward-looking program like a CFS is a thoughtful approach that provides a gradual transition away from traditional gasoline and diesel, and will encourage rapidly growing investment in the technologies needed to reduce pollution across the United States.,” CR said.
CR urged the Committee to consider a legislative strategy that reflects the fact that communities impacted most by transportation pollution are low income communities and communities of color. CR encouraged senators to consider a proposal that includes opportunities to invest a significant portion of CFS program revenues back into these communities, which are disproportionately affected by climate change and heavy pollution.
CR now has an online hub of information about LCFs for policymakers, consumers, and other stakeholders at cr.org /lcf
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About Consumer Reports
Founded in 1936, CR has a mission to create a fair and just marketplace for all. Widely known for our rigorous research and testing of products and services, we also survey millions of consumers each year, report extensively on marketplace issues, and advocate for consumer rights and protections around safety as well as digital rights, financial fairness, and sustainability. CR is independent and nonprofit.
Contact: David Butler, david.butler@consumer.org