Environmental Toxins: Study Looks At Environmental Impact of Ethanol

A new study shows that ethanol might not be the cleaner energy alternative of the future. Many say that using ethanol for fuel is better because it releases fewer pollutants than gasoline. Manoj Patil, a chemistry professor at W.I.T., says that ethanol is better because it produces "less smog, basically, because of less carbon monoxide. And it's renewable."

Study Examines Environmental Impact of Ethanol

However, the new study from Stanford professor Mark Jacobson, says that when he modeled a projection on what would happen if all cars in the United States ran on a mainly ethanol blend, there were less of some toxins, but more of many others. Most notably, acetaldehyde, a carcinogen, was produced, as was formaldehyde. Health officials say long term exposure to formaldehyde causes respiratory problems. Based on Jacobson's model, there will be higher ozone levels and about 185 more deaths a year if ethanol becomes used as a common fuel source. Senator Charles Grassley, however, isn't worried about Jacobson's findings. He says "So, when I measure 13 studies that are positive ... three that are negative... I think the weight of the argument is very much in favor of further use of ethanol."