September 23rd, 2026

California wants to reduce emissions from the fuels used on its roads. One of the ways it works toward that goal is the Low Carbon Fuel Standard, or LCFS. Here’s what the program measures and where E85 fits in.

What the Low Carbon Fuel Standard does

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) administers the LCFS. The program sets targets for reducing the carbon intensity of California’s transportation fuel mix. Under the current targets, the state aims for a 30% reduction by 2030 and a 90% reduction by 2045, compared with a 2010 baseline. Those targets apply to the overall fuel mix, rather than to each fuel sold at the pump.

What carbon intensity means

Carbon intensity measures greenhouse gas emissions across a fuel’s life cycle. That includes obtaining the raw materials, producing the fuel, transporting it and using it in a vehicle. CARB expresses the result as emissions per unit of energy, so fuels can be compared on the same basis.

Where E85 fits

Pearson Fuels’ E85 blend contains nominally 83% ethanol and 17% gasoline or renewable naphtha. Ethanol typically has a much lower carbon intensity than gasoline, although its score depends on how it’s produced and delivered. Using E85 gives flex fuel drivers a way to choose a lower-carbon fuel while continuing to drive the vehicle they already own.

An option already at the pump

More than 650 stations across California offer E85. If you drive a flex fuel vehicle, you can look for a station along a route you already take and make E85 part of your regular fill-up.

Not sure whether your car can use E85? Here’s how to check.