How Growing Biofuel Production in the US Midwest Could Harm Farmers and Our Climate

The production of biofuels in the U.S. has surged significantly over the last two decades, especially in the Midwest. This boom has deeply affected farmers and rural communities in the region.

Policies like the Renewable Fuel Standard, introduced in 2005, have encouraged increased cultivation of crops like corn and soybeans for biofuel production. These biofuels aim to lessen greenhouse gas emissions and boost energy independence. However, recent research from the World Resources Institute (WRI) suggests it’s time for a fresh look at the future of crop-based biofuels in the Midwest.

First-generation biofuels, made from food crops, are widely used, overshadowing advanced biofuels that utilize agricultural waste. The problem is that growing these crops can lead to environmental challenges, like land conversion from forests to farmland. The U.S. grows corn and soybeans on around 178 million acres, primarily in the Midwest states. Surprisingly, while corn and soy account for a massive land footprint, their contribution to U.S. transportation fuel remains modest—just 4% from corn ethanol and less than 1% from soybean biodiesel in 2022.

This raises questions about the effectiveness of using crops for biofuel production. Besides contributing to greenhouse gas emissions, these crops also compete for farmland that could be used to grow food. Some farmers cultivate on less productive land, which, instead of biofuels, could support renewable energy like wind or solar farms. In fact, renewable energy sources can produce far more energy per acre than biofuels. When considering the opportunity costs of land use, it becomes clear that crop-based biofuels may not be the best solution for combating climate change.

Furthermore, biofuels can impact health by polluting air and water. Increased fertilizer use leads to nitrogen runoff, affecting drinking water quality in rural areas. Ethanol refineries emit significant greenhouse gases; in 2021 alone, they released 17.4 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent, which is a substantial climate concern.

Biofuel production also widens economic inequality among farmers. Larger farms predominantly receive government support, and as biofuel production grows, the benefits often bypass small-scale farmers. A study shows that nearly 57% of crop insurance subsidies go to the largest 10% of farms. Additionally, livestock farmers face rising feed costs due to increased corn prices, leading to further economic strain.

Historical patterns reveal a concerning trend: the number of large farms has risen by 140% since 1978, while midsize farms have all but disappeared. This consolidation presents severe challenges, particularly for Black farmers, who have faced barriers to land ownership throughout history. In fact, a study indicated that Black farmers lost $326 billion worth of land in the 20th century due to discriminatory practices.

As the climate crisis intensifies, droughts and erratic weather may exacerbate the challenges of biofuel production in water-scarce areas. The Ogallala Aquifer, a crucial water source for many Midwestern farms, is projected to be 69% depleted by 2060, raising further concerns about sustainable farming practices.

To address these issues, policymakers must reassess supportive measures for biofuels. This might mean capping the land designated for first-generation biofuel crops and boosting investment in advanced biofuels that utilize agricultural waste. Expanding support for marginalized farmers and promoting climate-friendly practices could also lead to more equitable opportunities in rural economies.

The path ahead requires balancing agricultural needs with environmental sustainability. By prioritizing innovative solutions, we can ensure that the farming community can thrive while also working toward a cleaner and healthier planet.

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