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draulic oils are used in the elevator system. And multiple U.S. military bases across the nation are using biobased products - everything from bedding, towels and sheets to soaps and cleaners for military equipment.
• In addition to expanding Federal use of biobased products, USDA also recently reopened the application process for companies to apply for a "Certified Biobased Product" label. This unique label, backed by certification, helps consumers identify hundreds of biobased products that appear on store shelves today.
• While budget reductions have created uncertainty in recent months, we know a strong biobased economy has real impacts for folks. These products will create new income for farmers and new job opportunities across rural America - and by harnessing biobased products, we can reduce America's dependence on oil.
• This week's new effort is critical to our mission to revitalize the rural economy. It's possible for USDA to focus on such priorities in part because our proactive efforts have saved more than $828 million in recent years - allowing us to stay focused on these mission-critical priorities.
• This effort is also yet another reminder of the importance of Farm Bill programs for rural America. A comprehensive new Food, Farm and Jobs Bill would further expand the biobased economy - and that's just one reason why Congress must get a comprehensive Food, Farm and Jobs Bill done as soon as possible.
• For our part, at USDA we will continue investing in a strong biobased economy. By expanding opportunities to create groundbreaking new biobased products, we can help innovative companies create new jobs in our small towns and revitalize the rural economy.