Skip to content

It's estimated that about 30 percent of the increase in…

“It's estimated that about 30 percent of the increase in grain prices could be attributed to the decision to embrace biofuels, particularly corn-based ethanol. It has done nothing for climate change and the business is in real trouble now with the collapse of oil prices. It's completely dependent…” quote by Michael Pollan
Download Open image
“It's estimated that about 30 percent of the increase in grain prices could be attributed to the decision to embrace biofuels, particularly corn-based ethanol. It has done nothing for climate change and the business is in real trouble now with the collapse of oil prices. It's completely dependent on a dollar subsidy and tariff from the government.”

Michael Pollan

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Biofuel policies, especially corn ethanol, raise grain prices without climate benefit, relying on subsidies and tariffs, leading to economic instability.

In simple terms: Corn ethanol lifts grain prices, hurts climate, depends on subsidies.

Key Takeaway

Reevaluate subsidies and prioritize sustainable energy.

Themes

environment economics policy

Mood

critical analytical

Type

policy environmental

When to use this quote

  • agricultural planning
  • energy policy
  • consumer pricing

Key Concepts

biofuels subsidies market volatility

Questions to Reflect On

  • What policies could reduce reliance on corn ethanol?
  • How can consumers influence sustainable energy?
A Different Perspective

Alternative energy sources may be more effective.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Michael Pollan

Explore all 584 Michael Pollan quotes

More Biofuels quotes

Browse all 29 Biofuels quotes