FS, a Brazilian ethanol and animal nutrition producer, has been awarded the ISCC (International Sustainability & Carbon Certification) and the world’s first Low LUC Risk certification for its corn ethanol production. This marks a monumental step in the global biofuels industry, particularly for the production of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), showcasing Brazil’s capability in providing low-carbon feedstock on a global scale.
Key Takeaways:
- FS’s Milestone in Sustainability: FS becomes the first Brazilian corn ethanol producer to receive the ISCC international certification, highlighting its adherence to stringent international sustainability standards for ethanol and corn oil production.
- Innovation in Low LUC Risk Certification: In collaboration with GGF Group, FS is the first ethanol producer globally to secure the Low LUC Risk certification, demonstrating a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by avoiding indirect land use changes (iLUC).
- Strategic Implications for the Aviation Sector: This certification opens new avenues for airlines, offering them a scalable and competitive source of low-carbon feedstock for SAF production, which is crucial for reducing the carbon footprint in the hard-to-abate aviation industry.
Understanding Low LUC Risk and iLUC
The Low LUC Risk certification is pivotal in ensuring that biofuel production, such as SAF, does not contribute to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with indirect land use changes. iLUC occurs when land previously used for other purposes, like forests or agricultural land, is converted into feedstock production areas, leading to deforestation or other environmentally detrimental changes. Achieving zero iLUC signifies that FS’s ethanol production process does not trigger such adverse environmental impacts, aligning with global efforts to mitigate climate change.
The Role of ISCC in Sustainable Biofuel Production
The ISCC system is a robust global framework for certifying sustainability and carbon metrics across various feedstocks and production processes. For FS, obtaining the ISCC CORSIA certification validates the sustainability of its ethanol and corn oil production chains from agricultural practices to biofuel production and distribution. This certification is essential for meeting the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)’s criteria for SAF production, focusing on environmental, social, and traceability standards.
The Certification Journey
Achieving these certifications was no small feat for FS, involving a comprehensive two-year process that scrutinized every aspect of the production chain, from agricultural practices to transportation. The participation of FS’s supplier, Água Santa farm, was crucial in verifying the carbon footprint and ensuring zero iLUC for second-crop corn. This achievement not only highlights FS’s commitment to sustainable practices but also sets a benchmark for the global biofuel industry.
FS’s attainment of the ISCC and Low LUC Risk certifications represents a landmark achievement in the biofuel sector, particularly for SAF production. It underscores the potential of Brazilian second-crop corn ethanol as a sustainable, low-carbon feedstock for the aviation industry. This development is a testament to the viability of integrating sustainable agricultural practices with biofuel production, setting a precedent for other producers worldwide and contributing significantly to the global fight against climate change.
