From valorinternational · Nov 5, 2026 · 1m 10s

Corn ethanol expands but sustainability challenges persist

Brazil's corn ethanol production grows, yet environmental concerns over deforestation and market risks linger.

In brief

Brazil's corn ethanol production grows, yet environmental concerns over deforestation and market risks linger. Brazil's corn ethanol production increased by 2.4% to 148 million tonnes in 2026/27, but deforestation risks and market uncertainties threaten sustainability. Originally reported by valorinternational.

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Corn ethanol expansion

Brazil's corn ethanol production surged beginning in 2017, reaching 10 billion liters by 2026/27.

Sustainability concerns

Environmental and social concerns arise from deforestation linked to biofuel production.

European criticism

European Parliament member Sigfriid Friis questions grain cultivation for fuel, following Lula's rejection of Brazilian biofuels.

Brazilian model

Brazil produces two crops annually, reducing land competition and food production needs.

Dried distiller's grains

Corn ethanol produces dried distiller's grains (DDG), a protein-rich livestock feed.

Production growth

Brazilian grain production is expected to reach 367.1 million tonnes in 2026/27, with corn driving 148 million tonnes.

Market expansion

Ethanol production is expected to reach 16.63 billion liters by 2033/34, targeting shipping and aviation markets.

Deforestation risks

Mato Grosso's state prosecutor investigates clearing native vegetation for plant boilers.

Sustainability challenges

Ethanol's environmental impact remains unclear due to deforestation and market uncertainties.

The key point

Brazil's corn ethanol production increased by 2.4% to 148 million tonnes in 2026/27, but deforestation risks and market uncertainties threaten sustainability.

Read the original on valorinternational

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