The aviation industry’s increasing adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) seems promising. However, this transition also highlights challenges related to the availability of feedstock and presents obstacles to meeting production targets. The ongoing expansion of the SAF market, along with various policy initiatives, has garnered the interest of other nations, including Brazil. Given its substantial global agricultural production, Brazil already occupies a leading position in biofuel production, especially those derived from waste materials, notably sugarcane-based ethanol.
Over the years, Brazil has introduced various policies related to biofuels. One notable example is the Proálcool (Pro-alcohol) initiative, which was launched in response to the global petroleum crisis in 1975. In addition, Brazil demonstrated its dedication to the Paris Agreement by implementing the National Biofuels Policy (RenovaBio) in 2019. In connection with encouraging SAF, there is a forthcoming mandate set for 2027, aiming to reduce Brazil’s aviation emissions by 1% of the sector’s total emissions in 2026, with the potential to increase this target to 10%.
The adoption of ethanol-to-jet technology shows enormous potential for SAF production in Brazil. It is important to note that although Brazil has a vast geographical size, not all regions are equally for producing feedstock. In the case of sugarcane, the state of Sao Paulo and the South-Central regions stand out as highly suitable for SAF production due to their abundant feedstock resources and established pipeline infrastructure.
Another crucial aspect for assessing the implementation of ethanol-to-SAF is the availability of technology pathways. A few players are capable of providing such technologies. For instance, LanzaJet’s alcohol-to-jet (ATJ) technology can convert sustainable ethanol from various sources and is in the process of constructing its demonstration facility at Freedom Pines Fuels in Soperton, Georgia, USA. This facility is projected to produce 10 million gallons of SAF and renewable diesel annually. Honeywell UOP also offers ethanol-to-jet (ETJ) technology with a high jet fuel output, and it has been selected for the Summit Next Gen project, which aims to generate 250 million gallons of SAF annually. Finally, Lummus’ ethanol-to-SAF technology integrates ethanol into ethylene (EtE), olefin oligomerization, and hydrogenation technologies. It has arisen from a partnership between Lummus and Braskem.
The Brazilian government’s engagement with ethanol production is a key factor behind the popularity of sugarcane crops, and a similar scenario could unfold for SAF with the right policies. Above all, to ensure a sustainable increase in output, it is crucial to implement more robust policies that address issues such as illegal deforestation and agrological zoning for sugarcane cultivation. Ultimately the success of the Brazilian biofuel revolution depends on achieving alignment and constructive collaboration between the government and the industry.
– Maria Eduarda Lopes
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