Florida's Farm to Fuel Summit approaching
Jul 21, 2009 10:04 AM
As Congress continues to debate and fashion extraordinary energy policy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and dependency on foreign oil, Florida Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner Charles H. Bronson is forging ahead with his efforts to promote the production of renewable energy from Florida's vast biomass resources.
Bronson is kicking off the 2009 Farm to Fuel Summit on July 29 to bring together hundreds of industry leaders in agriculture, petroleum, academia, financial institutions and the government who want to make Florida a leader in the production of renewable energy.
Highlights of the Summit include keynote speeches from U.S. Under Secretary of Agriculture Dallas Tonsager and Florida Governor Charlie Crist, and a special premiere of Josh Tickell's award winning documentary film, "FUEL." This year's Summit will also include more than 40 exhibitors.
"With each passing day, the need for alternative sources of fuel and energy becomes more critical," Bronson said. "Florida has the greatest potential for biomass production in the country, and the technology exists to convert natural resources to produce clean, alternative fuel. This conference will bring together all the stakeholders so we can continue working toward the goal of reducing our dependence on foreign oil while at the same time providing another source of income for our struggling farmers."
Participants will hear about the latest renewable energy technologies, challenges relating to project financing, permitting and infrastructure, and the growing market for carbon credits.
"The summit will bring representatives of all of the key industries together so we can move forward as a state in creating renewable energy in Florida," Bronson said. "Thanks to our mild climate, ample sunshine and abundant rainfall, there's no reason why Florida cannot out produce every other state in renewable energy production and be a model for others to follow."
This year's Summit returns for a second year to the Rosen Shingle Creek which in 2007 was designated as a Florida Green Lodge. In addition, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with the summit will be offset by renewable energy certificates retired by Carbon Offset Originators, LLC.
The 2009 Farm to Fuel Summit will begin with an evening reception on Wednesday, July 29, and conclude at noon on Friday, July 31.
For information about the Farm to Fuel Summit visit http://www.FloridaFarmToFuel.com.
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