Author(s)

C. DIEPERINK & S. MAAS

Abstract

Starting in 1975, the Brazilian ethanol programme is the world’s oldest and most advanced biofuels programme. Nowadays, ethanol accounts for 40% of total fuel consumption in Brazil and the country is market leader, responsible for 45% of the world’s ethanol fuel production. The Brazilian ethanol programme can be a source of inspiration for other countries willing to introduce ethanol production. Ideally these countries should try to sustain the positive while reducing the negative sustainability effects of ethanol production. This article discusses the social, environmental, and economic impacts of the Brazilian ethanol programme.

Keywords

biofuels, Brazil, ethanol