A coalition of biofuels, agricultural and environmental organizations is calling for a united effort toward making July 4th Energy Independence Day by extending America’s domestic fuel supply through increased biofuels use and simple conservation strategies.

Currently, America’s domestic gasoline and ethanol production combined is enough to supply the country’s gasoline needs for 149 days. But through the increased use of biofuels and simple conservation strategies, America could extend its supply by another 27 days – or theoretically until July 4 – before needing to rely on imported oil.

According to the coalition, America currently produces 49 billion gallons of gasoline domestically, which equates to 128 days of energy independence. Nine billion gallons of ethanol adds another 21 days. Assuming no change in domestic gasoline production, the groups believe the additional savings in imports can be made up by another five billion gallons of ethanol – yielding 37 days of energy independence – and 19 days of conservation achieved by drivers limiting their usage by just 21 gallons per year.

The groups are calling for unity to achieve this goal. “To find true and long-lasting sustainable solutions, corporate self interests, political polarization, and agendas must be set aside,” they said in a press release from the Ethanol Promotion and Information Council. “We must band together in the fight for Energy Independence here in the United States and around the globe.”

In addition to the major ethanol and corn grower organizations, other groups supporting the effort include the American Lung Association of the Upper Midwest, Biotechnology Industry Organization, Environmental and Energy Study Institute, National Farmers Union, National Sorghum Producers
National Wheat Growers Association and Set America Free.