The month of June began with an intensive and highly productive agenda focused on advancing the global energy transition. Representing the Brazilian Sugarcane and Bioenergy Industry Association (UNICA), Raquel Lages participated in a series of high-level events that highlighted the critical role of sustainable biofuels. These engagements were carried out in partnership with the Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (ApexBrasil) as part of the Sugarcane Ethanol Project.
Across Paris and Brussels, the events demonstrated the relevance of growing international commitment to advancing sustainable biofuels, strengthening bioeconomy partnerships, and accelerating decarbonization efforts.
Advancing the Belém Pledge Through Sustainable Fuel Policies
Last year, a key milestone in the global energy transition was the publication of the International Energy Agency’s (IEA) report Delivering Sustainable Fuels. The report highlighted the significant potential for sustainable biofuels, projecting that their use could nearly double by 2030 compared with 2024 levels and quadruple by 2035. Achieving this growth, however, will require the effective implementation of robust national and international policies.
Building on this momentum, 28 countries endorsed the COP30 Belém Pledge, recognizing that ambitious climate goals can only be achieved through strong international cooperation and coordinated policy action.
In Paris, the IEA hosted on June 2nd , the workshop Delivering the Belém Pledge: Policy Options to Scale a Suite of Sustainable Fuels, bringing together policymakers and industry representatives to discuss the policy developments needed to accelerate the deployment of sustainable fuel technologies at scale. Participants also explored ways to strengthen governance and align standards, providing greater confidence that fuels meet environmental and social criteria.
Sustainable Molecules at the Center of Energy Future
On 3 June 2026, policymakers, industry leaders, researchers, and sustainability experts gathered in Brussels for Molecule Forum Europe 2026, organized by the Molecule Group under the leadership of Gerard Ostheimer.
The forum focused on the role of sustainable fuels, chemicals, and materials in creating economies that are not only decarbonized but also competitive, resilient, and energy secure. As governments and industries seek to balance affordability, reliability, energy security, and climate commitments, sustainable molecules are increasingly recognized as important components of both the energy transition and industrial competitiveness. Participants also emphasized that the next challenge lies in transforming climate commitments into investable markets through coherent policies that foster innovation, strengthen competitiveness, and enable large-scale deployment.
Strengthening EU–Brazil Bioeconomy Partnerships During Amazon Week
During Amazon Week in Brussels, the European Union and the Brazilian Mission to the European Union, in collaboration with ApexBrasil, SocioBio Hub, and the EUROCLIMA Programme (implemented by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit – GIZ), hosted the event Scaling EU–Brazil Bioeconomy Partnerships.
The gathering brought together policymakers, investors, entrepreneurs, cooperatives, and buyers to promote trade and investment in sustainable Amazonian value chains. It served as an important platform for connecting Brazilian bioeconomy producers with European stakeholders and exploring new opportunities for collaboration.
UNICA, contributed to discussions showcasing the innovation, sustainability, and investment potential of Brazil’s bioenergy and bioeconomy sectors. The event highlighted the growing importance of strengthening EU–Brazil cooperation to support sustainable development, attract green investment, and build resilient bioeconomy value chains. Discussions continued during a networking reception celebrating Amazonian gastronomy and products, creating additional opportunities for dialogue and partnership-building among participants.
