Brazil will ask countries to quadruple global use of “sustainable fuels”, including controversial biofuels, according to a leaked draft pledge seen by the Guardian. The pledge is set for world leaders gathering at the Cop30 climate conference in Belém next month. It targets a fourfold increase in biofuels, biogas, and hydrogen compared to 2024 levels by 2035.
Brazil, the world’s second-largest ethanol producer, argues biofuels displace fossil fuels and benefit the climate. However, green experts dispute this, citing increased deforestation, biodiversity loss, and food insecurity. A Transport and Environment study found biofuels cause 16% more CO2 emissions than fossil fuels due to farming and deforestation impacts.
The draft pledge requires biofuels to come from environmentally sustainable sources. Critics like Andreas Sieber of 350.org warn that “sustainable fuels” distract from the main goal of transitioning away from fossil fuels. Cian Delaney of T&E said doubling biofuel supply likely requires more land clearance, which would be devastating for climate and ecosystems.
Leaked agenda plans show Brazil’s divided government, with President Lula’s coalition including both environmentalists and agribusiness supporters. The first day of the leaders’ summit on 6 November will focus on forests, including a proposed $125bn Tropical Forests Forever Facility. The second day will discuss the energy transition, a contentious topic after Saudi Arabia blocked progress on fossil fuel phase-out at previous talks.
