Brazil has established itself as the global leader in biofuel production and usage over the past decades. With a large agriculture sector and suitable climate conditions, the country has relentlessly pursued the development of sustainable biofuels that can reduce its dependence on fossil fuels.
A Pioneering Effort
Brazil began investing heavily in biofuel research and production back in the 1970s, when the OPEC oil crisis highlighted the need for energy security. Since then, it has become the world's second largest producer and consumer of ethanol fuel, next only to the United States. A bulk of Brazil's ethanol comes from sugarcane, which grows abundantly in the tropical climate. Sugarcane ethanol aka ethanol has largely replaced gasoline in Brazilian vehicles, with over 40 million flex-fuel vehicles that can run on any proportion of gasoline and ethanol. This pioneering effort has significantly reduced emissions and oil imports over the years.
Leading Global Ethanol Exporter
Brazil's experience with sugarcane ethanol production and infrastructure helped it become the leading global exporter of the biofuel. It currently accounts for over 50% of global ethanol trade. The top importers of Brazilian ethanol include the United States, Netherlands, Germany and Japan. Brazil's competitively priced sugarcane ethanol has found markets in countries looking to blend biofuels into their transportation fuel under renewable standards. Global demand is likely to rise further with more nations committing to emissions reductions under the Paris Agreement. Brazil is well placed to capitalize on this growing trade opportunity.
Expanding into Cellulosic Ethanol
While sugarcane will remain its main feedstock, Brazil is exploring the production of cellulosic or second generation ethanol to diversify its biofuel portfolio. Cellulosic ethanol utilizes non-food plant biomass like agricultural residues and wood, so it does not compete with food. The tropical climate allows diverse biomass growth throughout the year. Brazil is carrying out research and pilot projects focused on producing ethanol from materials like sugar cane bagasse, energy cane and elephant grass. Some larger companies have started commercial production of cellulosic ethanol. If successful, this can boost Brazil's exports further while utilizing waste agricultural resources more efficiently.
Biodiesel Emerging as Another Growth Area
In addition to being a ethanol powerhouse, Brazil is making serious strides in biodiesel production and adoption as well. Like ethanol, biodiesel production started as a self-sufficiency drive to reduce oil imports and achieve energy security. Soybean is the chief feedstock used in Brazilian biodiesel today. The longstanding biodiesel blending mandate ensures demand. Brazil is today the second largest global producer of biodiesel after the European Union. With a biodiesel blend of around 10-13% mandated nationwide, Brazil present s a huge market that domestic biodiesel producers are eager to tap. Transesterification units are being expanded or built across the country. Biodiesel demand and production are projected to rise further in Brazil in the coming decade.
Supportive Policy Backdrop
Brazil has achieved so much in biofuels due to consistent policy support from the government over the past 40+ years. The ethanol program was pioneered by state-run oil company Petrobras. Subsequent administrations have maintained blending mandates and tax incentives that make sugarcane ethanol a competitive transport fuel alternative. Similarly, biodiesel production got a leg up through an initial zero-tax policy that encouraged investments. Today, the biodiesel blend mandate continues to drive domestic production and consumption. Brazil is formulating a long term biofuel strategy to guide the sector's evolution towards more advanced technologies. International partnerships and trade agreements also facilitate Brazilian biofuel exports. This supportive public policy has been instrumental in transforming Brazil into a biofuel powerhouse.
Sustainability & Environment Friendliness
Despite its commercial success, early criticisms of Brazilian biofuels centred around sustainability concerns. However, the industry has come a long way in implementing best practices. Sugarcane production is now highly mechanized and there are strict regulations against cultivation in the Amazon forest or other sensitive lands. Moreover, sugarcane replenishes itself annually, absorbing carbon while growing. Studies show Brazilian sugarcane ethanol reduces greenhouse emissions by over 70% compared to gasoline. Even with expected yield increases, sugarcane will not outstrip available cultivable areas. Brazil is also promoting sustainable forest management for future cellulosic feedstock supply. Overall, continued technological innovations and adherence to sustainability standards will help Brazilian biofuels maintain their "green" credentials in the global marketplace.
Outlook
In summary, Brazil's astute policies, investments in research, suitable climate and vast agriculture sector have placed it at the forefront of the global biofuel transition. Sugarcane ethanol clearly dominates the transport sector today. Evolving technologies and new feed stocks indicate further growth potential for Brazil in diversified cellulosic fuels and biodiesel areas. International demand for its sustainable, cost-competitive biofuels will likely remain buoyant. However, the industry will have to continually innovate and adopt best global practices to stay ahead on sustainability. If it succeeds, Brazil is poised to remain a renewable energy powerhouse well into this century, driving economic development while curbing emissions from the transportation sector worldwide.