UN Aviation SAF Plan Sparks U.S. Brazil Ethanol Debate
The United States is expected to oppose a UN aviation council recommendation that it says gives an unfair carbon rating advantage to Brazilian corn ethanol over American alternatives.
The debate focuses on rules proposed by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) for certifying Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), a cleaner jet fuel alternative.
Airlines worldwide are being pushed to adopt SAF to meet net zero emissions goals by 2050. These fuels, made from waste or renewable materials like cooking oil or corn, currently represent less than 1% of total jet fuel use.
The U.S. argues that Brazil’s common practice of multicropping—growing crops like corn and soy on the same land—would be rewarded with lower carbon scores under ICAO’s proposed guidelines.
In contrast, U.S. ethanol producers, particularly in the Midwest, are investing in carbon capture to improve sustainability.
The Iowa Corn Growers Association has voiced concern, noting that Brazil already enjoys a better carbon rating, which may harm U.S. market access in green fuel markets. Brazil’s corn ethanol production is expected to nearly double to 16 billion litres by 2032.
ICAO’s council, which includes 36 nations, will review the SAF certification proposal ahead of its fall assembly. While ICAO’s guidelines are not legally binding, they influence national decisions.
Bruno Alves, director at Brazil’s UNEM, responded to the dispute by saying, “Any attempt at political interference would undermine not only the decision-making process, but also the international community’s confidence in the sustainable aviation fuels certification system.”
The U.S. State Department raised objections in March but has not issued further public statements. Brazil’s agriculture ministry has not responded. The discussions may yet lead to a compromise, according to sources.