Integrated pest management programs, which reduce pesticide use through tillage and crop rotation, could also be jeopardized. Fuel and energy and cost increases resulting from the treaty could deal farmers an especially heavy blow. The American Petroleum Institute estimates that the climate agreement could increase prices for gasoline, diesel fuel and electricity by 50 per cent or more, depending on the emission targets that are prescribed. The Administration's estimates have been lower, but the U.S. Commerce Department recently agreed that capping carbon dioxide emissions at 1990 levels could require the equivalent of a 25 cent gas tax. Fuel cost increases, even at these levels, would impose a big hardship on U.S. farmers.
Energy costs are a major part of most farmers' production expense.
What we pay for fuel and electricity dramatically affects our bottom line. That's why Farm Bureau fought hard for defeat of the highly unfair BTU tax. Agriculture's positive contribution in controlling emissions is not being considered. Another aspect of this issue is that our critics ignore farmers' positive role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Little recognition is given to advances in agricultural practices, conservation and energy efficiency by farmers, particularly here in the U.S. U.S. farmers have significantly improved their efficiency and reduced their use of fuel and fertilizer.