ETHANOL
Brazil is the world’s largest sugarcane ethanol producer and a pioneer in using ethanol as a motor fuel. In 2023-2024, Brazilian ethanol production reached 35.9 billion liters. Most of this production is absorbed by the domestic market where it is sold as either pure ethanol fuel (E100) or blended with gasoline (E27).
Sugarcane ethanol is an alcohol-based fuel produced by the fermentation of sugarcane juice and molasses. Because it is a clean, affordable and low-carbon biofuel, sugarcane ethanol has emerged as a leading renewable fuel for the transportation sector.
Ethanol contributes to decarbonizing transport in two ways:
Blended with gasoline
Pure
BENEFITS
Ethanol adds oxygen to gasoline which helps reduce air pollution and harmful tailpipe emissions. Ethanol also reduces Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions by up to 90% when compared to fossil fuels, performing better than any other liquid biofuel produced today on a commercial scale.
Beyond its positive environmental impact, ethanol can also enhance a vehicle’s performance. It is a high-octane fuel that generates more power in higher compression engines.
Available now, ethanol helps to reduce global dependence on fossil fuels and can be used to diversify a country’s energy matrix.
OVER
2.5 bi
barrels of gasoline substituted between 1975 and 2023 in Brazil
Biofuels
are central to Brazil’s low carbon emission strategy
Per capita GDP rise of
USD 1,098
in Brazilian cities where
ethanol is produced
BRAZIL: A LEADER IN ETHANOL
PRODUCTION AND USE
Brazil has achieved greater energy security thanks to both a competitive sugarcane industry and policies that make ethanol a key part of its energy matrix. In 2023, Brazil replaced 44% of its gasoline needs with sugarcane ethanol.
Keep the Door Open to Cleaner Fuels: Why U.S. Policy Should Strengthen, Not Undermine, the Role of Brazilian Ethanol
Brazilian ethanol has been—and can continue to be—a valuable partner in helping the U.S. reduce carbon emissions, while also delivering economic benefits and enhancing energy security.
News
Biofuels Without Borders: Building a Sustainable Future Through International Cooperation
Climate change stands as one of the most pressing global challenges of our time. Its causes and impacts cross borders—demanding collective, coordinated efforts from all nations. The transport sector, responsible for nearly a quarter of global CO₂ emissions, must be a...
Why Climate Change Conferences Matter for the Clean Energy Transition
Since energy and transport produce most emissions, the clean energy transition is the main instrument to meeting climate goals.
