UC Cooperative Extension | Agricultural Experiment Station
The unintended consequences of clean fuel policies
![Increased demand for renewable fuels is diverting edible vegetable oils, which are used as a feedstock for renewable fuels, from the food system. Credit: Getty images Increased demand for renewable fuels is diverting edible vegetable oils, which are used as a feedstock for renewable fuels, from the food system. Credit: Getty images](http://ucanr.edu/blogs/Green//blogfiles/107746small.png)
How policies affect emissions, land use, and the prices of fuel and vegetable oils Over the last two decades, both the federal government and state governments have enacted policies to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the transportation...
UC Delivers
In Contra Costa County, the 2016 California Healthy Kids Survey found that only one out of four teens, ages 12-17, drank eight or more glasses of water the previous day. The same survey found that two out of three (62%) of teens drank two or more sodas the previous day - two times more teens than the national rate of 30%.
Studies have found that Sugar Sweetened Beverages (SSBs) consumption is linked to weight gain, metabolic syndrome, tooth decay, and type 2 diabetes. Each 12 ounce soda contains the equivalent of eight teaspoons of added sugar, 130 calories, and zero nutrients. The American Heart Association recommends that children and teens limit added sugars to less than six teaspoons a day. Substituting zero calorie water for SSBs can help reduce added sugars, calories, and weight gain, ultimately reducing the risk of developing chronic diseases. Education and awareness are keys to helping individuals make informed choices. The annual Sugartown Festival in Crockett, CA is the largest community festival in the city drawing about 7,500 participants and provides an excellent opportunity to increase awareness.
Read about: Project 4-H2O Provides Free Zero Calorie Education and Option at Sugartown Festival | View Other Stories