Greener Snow Blowing With Ethanol

Cindy Zimmerman

E Clearing the driveway in the winter months can help clear the air if you use ethanol-enriched gasoline in your snowblower.

According to the Ethanol Promotion and Information Council, small engines can efficiently burn 10 percent ethanol blends and the use of E10 reduces greenhouse gas emissions by as much as 30 percent.

“It’s important to think green year round,” said Joanna Schroeder with the Ethanol Promotion and Information Council (EPIC). “Winter air pollution is a concern for many communities across the U.S.”

The EPA describes “particle pollution” as microscopic particles in the air that can get deep in the lungs, with potential serious health problems. Particle pollution can occur throughout the year.

“Small engines in snow blowers perform well with ethanol-enriched gasoline, without sacrificing performance,” said Ralph Groschen with the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s Ethanol Program. “Check your owner’s manual and be sure to use fresh fuel at the start of the season.”

Read more from EPIC.

EPIC, Ethanol, News