By: Todd Mouw, president
Part of our nation’s independence comes from relying on domestic energy. We continue to
beat the drum about the importance of energy security. We’re a country rich in oil, natural gas
and propane. Using these domestic energy resources will help to better insulate us from the
instability that plagues the globe today.
The volatility of oil prices that is currently being driven by the politics with Iran — and those
countries that buy oil from Iran — have a significant impact on the freedoms we have fought for
over the last 243 years.
According to The Balance, food prices depend on a combination of factors, one of which is
rising oil prices. When the price of oil goes up, it affects food prices for two reasons. First,
farmers use fertilizers that contain oil byproducts. Second, food in the U.S. is generally
transported long distances, which requires fuel.
Climate change affects food prices, as well. For example, extreme weather caused by
greenhouse gas emissions has led to farmland flooding and other challenges. In March, a
“bomb cyclone” caused more than $1 billion in damages in Nebraska.
How can we champion alternative fuels that protect our air quality and lessen demand on fossil
fuels? Propane autogas, for instance, emits fewer emissions than conventional transportation
fuels and is produced domestically — so it’s not subject to the vagaries of Middle East politics.
Commercial fleets, government municipalities, school districts and transit agencies that choose
propane save money year after year on fuel costs and maintenance, all while safeguarding the
air quality in their communities.
To learn more about ROUSH CleanTech’s alternative-fuel vehicle technology that powers
school buses and Ford commercial vehicles, please visit www.roushcleantech.com.