The government of Australia was sufficiently concerned about the possibility that it rejected similar efforts to break the blend wall.

FORBES: Biggest Battle Yet for Biofuels Begins

Refiners are now crashing into what is called a "blend wall, " meaning the feds have forced them to purchase more ethanol than they can safely put in their gasoline.

WSJ: Review & Outlook: The Ethanol Gas-Pump Surcharge

In New Zealand Scion Research works to convert the waste stream from pulp and paper processing into a blend of microbial cell wall debris and plastic called polyhydroxyalkanoate, or PHA. Plant a PHA flower pot into the ground and and it biodegrades.

FORBES: Revving Up Nature's Engines

Although Koop eventually won wide respect with his blend of old-fashioned values, pragmatism and empathy, his nomination in 1981 met a wall of opposition from women's groups and liberal politicians.

WSJ: C. Everett Koop, ex-surgeon general, dies in NH