Gas to have 5% ethanol

As of January 1, all gasoline in Ontario must contain an average of 5% ethanol.

The new regulation is a part of this government's commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality.

"For Ontario drivers this means they can feel better about their environmental footprint. Making sure that Ontarians are purchasing gasoline that is less harmful to our environment is an important step forward in this government's ongoing commitment to improving

the air for our families and for generations to come," said Environment Minister Laurel Broten.

Ethanol-blended gasoline will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 800,000 tonnes annually, which is equivalent to the emissions produced by 200,000 cars. Ethanol is cleaner burning than gasoline and is made from renewable resources such as corn and wheat. Ethanol also contains oxygen, and this increases the combustion efficiency of fuels, resulting in reduced exhaust emissions.