Almost half of the total corn produced in Tennessee is used for ethanol.

Article sponsored by Tennessee Corn Promotion Board

In an effort to combat climate change, electric vehicles are becoming more popular and more advanced.

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But overall, the country isn’t prepared for an EV takeover. It still lacks the necessary infrastructure and charging ports, especially in rural parts of America, including Tennessee.

Thankfully, there is a more affordable solution that’s readily available and supported by Tennessee farmers that can make an immediate impact on carbon emissions – ethanol.

“Corn is the No. 1 ingredient in ethanol,” says Carol Reed, executive producer of the Tennessee Corn Promotion Board. “EVs are an option for some, but ethanol is here now and is a renewable resource that can be used to help reduce carbon emissions.”

Ethanol additives made from corn replace harmful compounds found in traditional fuel so that it burns cleanly. Currently, up to 10% ethanol is blended with gasoline at gas stations throughout the state – and it’s working to reduce carbon emissions.

A recent study found that between 2005 and 2019, corn ethanol in the United States resulted in a greenhouse gas reduction of more than 500 million tons. 

“Corn is the No. 1 ingredient in ethanol. EVs are an option for some, but ethanol is here now and is a renewable resource that can be used to help reduce carbon emissions.”

– Carol Reed, Executive Producer of the Tennessee Corn Promotion Board

In Tennessee, 46% of total corn production in the state is used for ethanol, with a production value of $339 million. Additionally, roughly 4,500 jobs in the state are supported by ethanol production.

George McDonald is a fourth-generation row crop and produce farmer at Catesa Farms in Riddleton, Tennessee. About 20,000 bushels of his corn crop are used for ethanol, and he emphasizes its importance to not only the environment but also the local economy.

“We’re oblivious to the fact that we have solutions for a greener environment now,” he says. “Ethanol is renewable, supports the local economy and is an American-grown option. It benefits consumers, the environment and our corn farmers.”

Learn more about the sustainable benefits of ethanol and where to find it near you at tncorn.org/ethanol.