Beer To Help Green the 2008 Convention

If watching the never-ending tussle over the democratic nomination makes you want to have a stiff drink, you'll love this. In August, when the Democratic National Convention kicks off in Denver, the GM flex-fuel cars they'll be driving will all be run on beer. The Coors brewery in Golden, Colorado will provide kegfulls of ethanol made from the company's waste beer (oxymoron, anyone?). The factory currently produces 3 million gallons from leftover suds each year.

The committee's plan to fuel their six-cylinders with six-packs is part of a larger effort to make the 2008 convention the "most environmentally sustainable political convention in modern American history." Although that doesn't really sound like a very high bar to hurdle, theDNC has overhauled its political processes from top to bottom to be greener.

The offices of the Democratic National Convention Committee are located in an Energy Star building equipped with a lo-energy lighting scheme, efficient computer systems andeco -materials galore. At the Pepsi Center, where the bulk of the mayhem will ensue, a new rooftop solar array and wind energy credits will help light up the proceedings. Other sustainable activities include Earth-kind materials, a thorough recycling program, and river group clean-up days.

The Committee is also encouraging delegates to purchase carbon offsets for their mile-high trip. So far, though, it looks like Dems in only 5 states are clearing their carbon conscience. And a feature on the website, called Green Screen, visitors can learn about environmental issues and the above-mentioned earthy improvements via the YouTube.

On the other side of the aisle, the GOP is eco-pimping their platform too, with paperless offices, sustainable furniture, and some integration of flex/hybrid vehicles. Maybe not quite the Green Old Party, but its an effort.

* Car pictured not actual beer car