Have you ever stopped to think about the role of agribusiness in combating climate change and transitioning to a world powered by clean energy? Amid so many discussions about sustainability, Brazil emerges as a global powerhouse with natural resources capable of transforming the way we generate and consume energy. But are we fully tapping into this potential?
Brazilian agribusiness is much more than crops and livestock. It is one of the keys to the planet’s energy future, with technologies that convert waste into biogas, biomethane, and biomass — renewable solutions that are already changing the game. Let’s explore how the sector can be the protagonist of a global energy revolution and what is still needed to achieve this scenario.
The Strategic Role of Biogas and Biomethane
The production of biogas from animal waste, agricultural residues, and agro-industrial byproducts represents one of the most sustainable solutions for clean energy generation. Biogas is obtained through the anaerobic decomposition of organic material, while its purified version — biomethane — can replace natural gas in various applications, such as transportation, industry, and heating.
According to the Brazilian Biogas Association (Abiogás), Brazil has the technical potential to produce 120 million m³ of biogas per day. Of this total, approximately 40% is concentrated in the sugar-energy sector, while the remainder is distributed among livestock farming and other agricultural activities. If this entire potential were harnessed, biomethane could replace up to 70% of the diesel consumed in the country, one of the main fuels used in heavy transport.
Companies like Eva Energia have been pioneers in utilizing technologies to transform organic waste into biogas and electricity. Located in strategic regions of the country, Eva Energia stands out for its ability to turn landfills and agro-industrial byproducts into clean energy, reducing methane emissions and promoting a circular economy.
Biomass: The Power of Agricultural Residues
Biomass is another fundamental pillar in the energy transition of Brazilian agribusiness. Materials such as sugarcane bagasse, wood waste, rice husks, and forest residues are used to generate thermal and electrical energy. The sugar-energy industry is particularly relevant in this context, being responsible for 60% of the bioenergy generated in the country.
In 2024, the state of São Paulo consolidated its position as the national leader in bioelectricity, with more than 25 million MWh generated from biomass. This volume corresponds to about 15% of the energy consumed in the state, reinforcing the role of sugarcane mills as true “biofactories.”
Investments and Public Policies
The approval of the Energy Transition Acceleration Program (PATEN) in December 2024 was a milestone for the sector. The program provides credit lines and tax incentives for projects in biogas, biomethane, and other renewable sources, such as solar and wind energy. According to estimates from the Ministry of Mines and Energy, PATEN could attract over R$ 50 billion in investments by 2030, promoting technological advances and expanding clean energy generation capacity in Brazil.
Another highlight is the regulated carbon market, which is expected to be implemented in 2025. This initiative creates new opportunities for agribusiness, allowing rural producers to be compensated for carbon capture and emission reduction. This further encourages the adoption of sustainable technologies, such as biodigesters and waste reuse systems.
Challenges for Expansion
Although the outlook is promising, there are still barriers to overcome. Infrastructure for the collection, transport, and distribution of biomethane is still limited, especially in more remote regions. Additionally, many small and medium-sized producers are unaware of the economic and environmental benefits of using biogas and biomass.
Organizations such as the National Rural Learning Service (Senar) have been investing in training, offering courses and consulting to expand access to these technologies. There are also startup initiatives focused on sector digitization, with solutions that optimize biodigester monitoring and improve operational efficiency.
The Future: Brazilian Agribusiness as a Global Reference
Brazilian agribusiness has the opportunity to lead the global energy transition. Thanks to the combination of abundant natural resources, technical expertise, and innovative initiatives, the country can become a global reference in clean and renewable energy.
With the support of public policies, private investments, and collaboration among various sectors, Brazil not only boosts its own economy but also contributes significantly to combating climate change. The future of energy is in the hands of agribusiness — and Brazil is ready to take on this leadership.
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