Despite the energy required to produce ethanol， the industry has significantly improved its energy balance and continues to make impressive strides.These improvements have existed within the ethanol industry mostly to navigate regulatory issues and market signals.The resulting efficiencies are generally accomplished without scrutiny from consumers and stakeholders.The U.S.has no requirements for sustainability data or verified certification.International standards are in place， however， that require data and source certificates to export fuel or distillers dried grains.Many financial and sustainability experts say the process used by ethanol producers to monitor and measure efficiency is on the cusp of drastic change.Donna Funk， principal at K·Coe Isom， has observed an increase of financial benefits when companies utilize sustainability measures as a competitive advantage in the marketplace.
展开▼
