At COP30 Brazil’s biofuels sector took a landmark step in reinforcing the global role of sustainable fuels in meeting climate commitments. The sector position on Belém Accord, signed by the Brazilian Sugarcane and Bioenergy Industry Association (UNICA), the Brazilian Association of Automotive Vehicle Manufacturers (Anfavea), Bioenergia Brasil, and the Instituto MBCBrasil was unveiled during an event hosted by Brazil’s Ministry of Mines and Energy. The occasion celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Proálcool Program, a historic initiative that helped position Brazil as a global pioneer in ethanol production and sustainable transport.
The document underscores Brazil’s longstanding leadership in renewable energy and low-carbon mobility and issues a bold international call: quadruple the production and use of sustainable fuels by 2035. The target is aligned with recommendations from the International Energy Agency’s latest report, “Delivering Sustainable Fuels – Pathways to 2035” and the Belém 4x Pledge, championed by Brazil, Japan , India and Italy.
A Unified Vision for the Energy Transition
The declaration stresses that biofuels are indispensable to the global energy transition, complementing electrification and emerging technologies. It presents Brazil as a real-world example of this integrated pathway: one of the cleanest energy mixes among major economies, powered by ethanol, biomethane, bioelectricity, and other renewables.
The document emphasizes that practical, scalable solutions already exist to reduce emissions today — including ethanol, flex-hybrid technology, biomethane, and BioLNG — and can be rapidly deployed across road transport, aviation, maritime shipping, and industry.
UNICA’s CEO Evandro Gussi highlighted the proven readiness of these solutions, stating:
“Ethanol is a proven, scalable technology already integrated into productive chains.”
Biomethane: A Strategic Opportunity
One of the positioning declaration’s key messages is the immense potential of biomethane, which could replace up to 60% of Brazil’s diesel consumption. This shift represents not only major emission reductions but also significant economic and social benefits through job creation, energy security, and rural development.
Brazil’s Global Leadership in Sustainable Fuels
In the document, Brazil reinforces its position as a world leader in clean energy and a critical voice shaping an inclusive, low-emission future. The call for a global increase in sustainable fuel production reflects both Brazil’s domestic achievements and its commitment to supporting international climate goals.
As COP30 continues, the Belém Accord stands as a milestone — signaling that scalable, renewable, and socially equitable energy solutions are not just possible, but already underway.
Read the full declaration here
