3.5 Government Initiatives to Enhance Brazil’s Bioeconomy
RenovaBio Program
The RenovaBio Program is a landmark initiative in Brazil, designed to incentivize and promote the use of biofuels as a means of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, fostering sustainability in the energy sector, and meeting climate change commitments. Officially launched in December 2017, RenovaBio represents a critical step towards aligning Brazil’s energy matrix with more environmentally friendly practices, aiming to achieve the country’s climate targets while enhancing its bioenergy industry (Malakar, Y., 2018). RenovaBio operates under a market-based approach, incorporating regulatory and economic mechanisms to incentivize the production and use of biofuels. Its primary objectives include: Encouraging the adoption of low-carbon fuels to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the transportation sector. Promoting sustainable practices in biofuel production and supply chains. Providing long-term stability and predictability for biofuel producers through market mechanisms. The program introduces a certification system where biofuel producers earn decarbonization credits, termed as “RenovaBio Decertificates” (CBIOs), based on the carbon intensity of their fuels. Producers meeting or surpassing emission reduction targets receive CBIOs, which they can trade in a regulated market. Fuel distributors are obliged to acquire and demonstrate a certain volume of CBIOs, ensuring compliance with the emission reduction targets. RenovaBio plays a pivotal role in consolidating Brazil’s position as a global leader in sustainable bioenergy. It aims to significantly contribute to Brazil’s commitments under the Paris Agreement by reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the transportation sector. The program incentivizes investments in cleaner fuel technologies and encourages innovation in bioenergy production (Goldemberg, J., 2008).
ProBio Program
The ProBio Program, short for “Programa de Desenvolvimento da Bioeconomia,” is a significant Brazilian initiative aimed at fostering the development of the bioeconomy through strategic investments, research, and innovation. Launched in 2015, this program operates under the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation, focusing on leveraging biological resources and biotechnology to drive economic growth, sustainability, and social development (Deb & Dey, 2019)
ProBio emphasizes the development and application of biotechnological innovations across various sectors, including agriculture, industry, health, and the environment. It promotes the utilization of biological resources in a manner that ensures environmental sustainability, striving for the responsible and efficient use of natural resources. ProBio aims to stimulate economic growth by supporting research, development, and innovation in biotechnology, fostering a competitive edge in global markets. ProBio allocates funds to support R&D projects focused on biotechnological advancements and their applications in diverse sectors. It fosters an innovation ecosystem by promoting collaborations between academia, research institutions, industry, and government agencies, aiming to drive technological breakthroughs. ProBio emphasizes the development of sustainable practices and technologies, encouraging the utilization of biological resources in a manner that minimizes environmental impact. The ProBio Program plays a vital role in Brazil’s efforts to position itself as a global player in the burgeoning bioeconomy. By supporting research, innovation, and sustainable practices, it contributes to economic diversification, job creation, and environmental conservation.