A very positive aspect of corn based ethanol is how it has provided a local market for locally produced corn, rejuvenated many small towns, providing local jobs. I've seen towns in some states where a local ethanol plant has kept the town and its schools and businesses alive.

This is rather than shipping, say SD corn, by truck or rail to the Mississippi river, barge down the river and transfer to a ship for overseas export. Not very efficient and paid for in the basis adjustment to the corn price.

Ethanol has also improved air quality and health benefits compared to past lead and other additives to ICE vehicle gasoline.