Results from national survey finds Americans seeking answers to dependence on foreign oil. A strong majority of American consumers are more inclined to throw their economic clout behind a cleaner, greener renewable fuel when it comes to issues of energy independence, American jobs and the environment.

A recent national survey released found that 57 percent of respondents believe that it is important that adding ethanol to gasoline lessens U.S. dependence on oil from foreign countries.

"These findings demonstrate that more and more Americans are becoming aware of the reasons why they should choose ethanol-enriched gasoline," says Reece Nanfito, senior director of marketing for the Ethanol Promotion and Information Council (EPIC). "A solution to our dependence on foreign oil rests right here at home through the hard work and ingenuity of the American workforce.

"Ethanol's positive impacts upon the American economy and the environment struck a chord with survey participants. Sixty-one percent of respondents indicated that they believe the American economy benefits from ethanol production. Fifty-eight percent believe that ethanol-enriched gasoline is better for the environment than standard gasoline. Respondents indicated that the most important benefit of ethanol is that it is "better for the environment."

"Consumers appear more than willing to throw their support behind a renewable fuel that reduces harmful emissions and provides tangible economic benefits to communities across the country," says Tom Slunecka, executive director for EPIC.

The survey also found that an informed consumer is the ethanol industry's most effective tool for increasing awareness. When respondents were provided with relevant information about ethanol, their interest in purchasing it increased by nearly 20 percent.

"Essentially, informed consumers have indicated they will exercise their freedom of choice at the pump and purchase ethanol," says Nanfito. "It becomes our job to let consumers know where ethanol is available so they can select it at the pump."

The full results of the study are available at http://www.drivingethanol.org/survey.

Survey Methodology:

A nationally representative panel was used to draw a random sampling of potential respondents. The panel consists of pre-screened individuals who have indicated a willingness to participate in survey research. The online survey produced 714 respondents, with a margin of error of +/- 3.7% percentage points.

About EPIC:

The Ethanol Promotion and Information Council is an alliance of ethanol producers and industry leaders who have come together to spread the word about the benefits of ethanol through information and promotional programs. EPIC is a nonprofit organization and is overseen by a nine-member board of directors.

Last Updated ( Monday, 20 November 2006 )