Annual survey shows public opinion of biodiesel positive, but soft

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The National Biodiesel Board's annual survey showed that while familiarity with biodiesel has grown significantly over the past years, the public still has a lot to learn about alternative fuels.

The survey was conducted among 1,000 representative voters around the country. It showed that NBB sustainability awareness and communications efforts are helping to ensure the positive perception of biodiesel and sustainability are maintained. Excerpts of findings from the survey conducted by Moore Information tell the story:

"Annual voter survey results show that today, a wide majority of voters (76 percent) across the country are aware of biodiesel. In the November 2009 survey, awareness was identical (76 percent aware).

"We find those familiar with biodiesel have a positive impression of the product. Today, 52 percent of voters have a positive impression of biodiesel, only 4 percent have a negative impression, another 37 percent have no opinion and the remaining 7 percent are unsure. In September 2009, biodiesel's image among those aware was similar (53 percent positive, 8 percent negative and 32 percent no opinion). Net positive responses (those who have a positive impression of biodiesel) increased from 45 percent last September to 48 percent this year."

The survey also explored voters' perceptions of biofuels. Nearly half of voters had no opinion about each of six statements about biofuels, an indication that many are still not familiar with these products. Voters were most likely to have opinions about the following four statements, widely describing each as "true."

• Biodiesel reduces emissions compared to petroleum (53 percent true/6 percent untrue)

• Replacing petroleum with biodiesel is good for the environment (53 percent/5 percent)

• Biodiesel is an advanced biofuel (50 percent/7 percent)

• Biodiesel is sustainable (50 percent/7 percent)

These survey results demonstrate the significant opportunity for additional biodiesel education in order to secure long-term support for the fuel and keep biodiesel myths from permeating. For more detailed analysis of the Moore Information survey, visit NBB's members-only website or contact the communications office.