Biofuels
We are a global benchmark and operate globally in the biofuels market.
The investments we have made in biofuels, which can be used in isolation or added to conventional fuels, reassert our commitment to attaining development associated to socioenvironmental responsibility. Our objective is to develop technologies that ensure global leadership in the production of biofuels. Biofuels are produced from renewable sources, such as biomass and agricultural products such as sugar cane, oilseed, and animal fat.
Ethanol
We are acknowledged worldwide for introducing of a biofuel - ethanol (hydrated ethylic alcohol or anhydrous alcohol) made out of sugar cane - to the energy matrix.
We operate as ethanol distributors and have enhanced our research lines to develop new ethanol production techniques. We are increasing the volumes sold worldwide, especially in Asia and the United States.
Ethanol has been in use in Brazil since the 1970's, when the Proálcool program was rolled-out. This was the biggest renewable fuel usage program ever deployed in the world.
Biodiesel
We are working on developing fuels derived from plants and animal fat to add to fossil diesel fuel, affording benefits in the transportation and electric energy generation areas.
We have three biofuel plants with capacity to produce 326,000 cubic meters per year. The technology we have developed allows us to work with all types of oilseed, such as castor beans, soybeans, peanuts, and sunflower seeds, among others.
Biodiesel affords many environmental advantages, among which reduced carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, the absence of sulfur, and lower pollutant particle generation.