Brazil to Transport Fertilizer with Green Fuel

Why this is here: The project aims to prevent approximately 41,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions in five years through the use of biomethane-powered trucks.

LOTS Group and Cocal will begin using biomethane-powered trucks to transport sugarcane vinasse—an organic fertilizer—in Brazil. This marks the first time in the country that agricultural input logistics will run completely on renewable fuel at an industrial scale. The project intends to replace over 19 million liters of diesel fuel and prevent roughly 41,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions over five years.

Forty-four trucks running entirely on biomethane will carry the vinasse, a residue from ethanol production used as fertilizer. Cocal, a major sugar, ethanol, and bioenergy producer, will begin the project with its current harvest. The companies estimate this initiative will reduce polluting emissions by 91% compared to diesel trucks.

The project’s full impact requires considering fleet renewal and efficiency improvements, with a projected total emissions reduction of up to 50% in 2026. The initiative aligns with Brazil’s new “Fuel of the Future” law, which seeks to increase biocombustible use and lessen reliance on polluting sources. Further expansion to transport sugarcane itself is also planned.