RFA CEO Kicks Off Global Ethanol Summit

Opening the Global Ethanol Summit, Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper set the stage with a look back at the U.S. ethanol industry’s rise and a vision for its future. He reflected on the journey from early adoption to global leadership, asking how the United States became the preeminent producer and consumer of ethanol—and how the fuel has grown into a cornerstone of energy security and rural economic vitality.

Cooper underscored that the same forces that built the industry remain essential as it moves into the next decades: sound policy, relentless innovation and efficiency, and the inherent versatility and value of ethanol across multiple markets.

Enduring Drivers of Growth

• Smart public policy: Cooper highlighted the broad, bipartisan support that has guided the industry from its earliest days. Leaders at the state and federal levels—along with presidents and governors—have recognized ethanol’s benefits. Strategic policies were designed to address real-world challenges faced by American families, from energy affordability and security to economic opportunities in rural communities.
• Innovation and continuous improvement: The industry’s commitment to improving production efficiency, reducing carbon intensity, and adopting new technologies has consistently expanded ethanol’s value proposition.
• Versatility and benefits: Ethanol’s role reaches far beyond the gasoline blend wall. Its performance attributes, emissions benefits, and potential in new applications continue to open doors in transportation and industry.

Policy Momentum and Partnerships

Cooper credited effective advocacy and strong partnerships—particularly with leading farm organizations—for helping policymakers understand ethanol’s multifaceted benefits. This coalition has supported policies that promote cleaner fuels, enhance energy independence, and strengthen rural economies. The outcome has been steady growth in production and use, underpinned by objectives that align with national priorities.

Summit Discussions and Focus Areas

RFA General Counsel and Vice President of Government Affairs Ed Hubbard moderated Monday afternoon panels, including a conversation on leveraging regenerative agriculture to expand ethanol opportunities. He will also open Tuesday’s sessions exploring innovation and emerging markets, vehicle compatibility, and the expanding role of ethanol in marine applications.

This week’s summit brings together policymakers, industry executives, researchers, and trade stakeholders to champion the value of U.S. ethanol across a broad array of sectors. Conversations are centered on:

• On-road fuels: Building on the foundation of ethanol blends that enhance octane, reduce emissions, and offer consumers more choice at the pump.
• Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF): Advancing pathways that utilize ethanol to help decarbonize aviation with scalable, lower-carbon solutions.
• Industrial applications: Expanding ethanol’s role in chemicals, solvents, and other manufacturing processes where performance and sustainability matter.
• Clean cooking: Exploring opportunities to improve public health and environmental outcomes in global markets.
• Sustainable marine fuels (SMF): Evaluating ethanol’s potential to reduce emissions in marine transport and support compliance with evolving standards.

Looking Ahead

Cooper’s message was clear: the U.S. ethanol industry’s story is one of adaptability and purpose. With supportive policy, continued technological advancements, and a growing set of applications, ethanol is positioned to deliver cleaner energy, economic resilience in rural America, and meaningful progress toward national and global sustainability goals.