Monocultures expand US reliance on foreign oil.

If the US maize supply were reduced, ethanol production would also decrease, leading to a greater demand for gas and oil. The United States has increased its domestic production of gas and oil following the shale revolution; however, the country remains a net energy importer. The United States would face a greater demand for international energy primarily from fossil fuels. Reliance on the maize monoculture is subject to vagaries as it can be impacted by a natural disasters, such as droughts, or an attack. If the monoculture is impacted, the United States will face a greater dependence on foreign fossil fuels and the potential for the country to become caught up in political entanglements with volatile energy producing countries. As one of the world's largest oil consumers, uncertainties concerning the maize monoculture and the lack of energy security means the United States is subject to the whims, powers, and price fluctuations of OPEC. The United States’ decision to use maize as a means to reduce foreign oil dependence is not efficient and creates a national security concern as it increases the domestic reliance on an uncertain commodity.