NCGA Participates in Biobased Initiatives Workshop (6-15-06)

The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) and biobased economy advocates gathered in Washington, D.C., at the Biobased Product Stakeholders meeting to highlight the emerging industry and promote more use of biobased products by the U.S. government and consumers.

“NCGA sees the possibilities for biobased products being the next value-added market for corn, similar to the success we've had with ethanol,” said Samantha Slater, NCGA director of public policy, who was one of the speakers at the workshop. “U.S. corn growers are redefining the role corn will play, and corn-based products can replace petroleum-based products such as plastics, chemicals and industrial applications. Biobased products will add value-added opportunities to rural communities and help reshape the agriculture industry’s future.”

Slater also noted biobased products will benefit the nation’s energy security, environment and economies – both rural and urban – as consumers will have a broader choice in products.

Other speakers at the workshop include U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Under Secretary of Rural Development Tom Dorr, USDA Deputy Assistant Secretary for Administration Peter Thomas and USDA Director of Office of Energy Policy and New Uses, Dr. Roger Conway. Many other government and industry speakers also attended.

Topics discussed at the workshop include: USDA’s Model of Biobased Procurement; discussions on biobased initiatives; and an open group discussion by attendees on lessons learned and the next steps.

On Wednesday, NCGA sponsored a reception with Sen. Tom Harkin (D-Iowa), who spoke on his ongoing efforts for biobased products. Harkin, who authored provisions in the 2002 farm bill that called for the federal government to give preference to purchasing biobased products if they are available, perform well, and are reasonably priced, noted biobased products could significantly reduce dependence on foreign oil, while boosting demand for domestically produced agricultural materials.

Some biobased products include industrial oils/lubricants, carpet, ceiling tiles, printing ink, building insulation and plastic cups. 

For a listing of biobased products made from corn, visit www.ncga.com