SUSTAINABILITY AND SOVEREIGNTY: THE REGULATORY ADEQUACY OF BRAZILIAN BIOFUELS IN THE ERA OF THE PARIS AGREEMENT

Abstract

Brazil is a benchmark in biofuel production. However, in order to meet the country's sustainable development commitments, this production chain must be in line with sustainability regulatory frameworks. This article analyzes the regulatory adequacy of Brazilian biofuels in terms of sustainability and global climate commitments under the Paris Agreement, focusing on their contribution to national energy sovereignty. First, it contextualizes the urgency of the global energy transition, driven by the climate crisis and the Paris Agreement, highlighting the strategic role of NDCS (Nationally Determined Contributions) in the decarbonization of economies. In this context, biofuels are a promising alternative to fossil fuels, with significant potential to reduce GHG (Greenhouse Gases), according to reports by the IPCC, IEA, and IRENA. Next, the historical trajectory of biofuels in Brazil is explored—from the Proálcool program (1975) to the present day—and their economic, social, and energy relevance (EPE, CEPEA/ESALQ, MAPA, CONAB). The analysis delves into the regulatory framework—with an emphasis on Renovabio (Law No. 13,576/2017), which creates CBIOS as an instrument to encourage efficiency and sustainability—and other policies such as the forest code and R&D. Regulatory challenges, market volatility, sustainability certification, land use, and food security are identified. Finally, the intrinsic relationship between sustainability and sovereignty is discussed in light of the Paris Agreement, addressing the environmental, social, and economic dimensions of biofuels. It is concluded that Brazil has unique potential to reconcile biofuel development with the climate agenda and energy sovereignty, recommending regulatory improvements, technological innovations, and global leadership.