NSW Opposition Leader Peter Debnam today urged Christmas motorists to help support our farmers and the environment by using ethanol-blended fuel as a way of getting around high petrol prices. 

"With many families taking to the road this Christmas, I urge motorists to take the opportunity to sample 10% ethanol blended fuel," said Mr Debnam, whose car runs on 85 percent ethanol fuel.

"High petrol prices are hitting everyone's hip pocket, so one way of bringing down petrol costs is to use ethanol blends which are about four cents a litre cheaper," he said.

"It's also helps support our farmers and reduce dangerous greenhouse gas emissions.

"It's vital NSW moves to embrace ethanol as quickly as possible because it will result in lower fuel prices, reduce cancer-causing pollution and greenhouse gases, and provide a more secure income for our farmers.

"It's even more important to improve air quality after a Government Health official revealed toxic smog contributes to the deaths of 1,400 people a year.

"The NSW Liberal/Nationals ethanol action plan includes:

Expansion of ethanol usage according to the following timetable:

2007 – 2%

2008 – 4%

2009 – 6%

2010 – 8%

2011 – 10%

Upgrading of production and distribution infrastructure;

The sale of E10 at up to 500 service stations across NSW;

A strong marketing plan in co-operation with the NRMA and environmental groups;

A leadership role on other alternative fuels.