By Jamie Martin
The United States is preparing to object to a recommendation by a United Nations aviation body, citing concerns that it would unfairly benefit Brazilian corn ethanol producers.
The issue centres around criteria developed by the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) technical panel for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), which the U.S. believes may put American farmers at a disadvantage.
Global airlines are under pressure to replace fossil fuels with low-emission alternatives, such as SAF, to meet net zero targets by 2050. However, these fuels currently make up less than 1% of jet fuel use.
The International Air Transport Association estimates the transition could cost the industry around $4.7 trillion.
The U.S. claims the recommendation favours Brazil by awarding a lower carbon score to multicropping—growing more than one crop on the same land—a method common in Brazil.
With corn production exceeding domestic demand, U.S. ethanol producers are pushing to reduce emissions by using technologies like carbon capture to compete in the growing green fuel market.
The Iowa Corn Growers Association has warned that Brazil’s ethanol already carries a lower carbon score than U.S. corn ethanol, potentially giving Brazilian exporters an edge in meeting international SAF standards.
The ICAO Council, comprising 36 members, will review the proposal ahead of the UN agency’s major assembly later this year. While ICAO does not set binding rules, its standards often guide national policies.
“Any attempt at political interference would undermine not only the decision-making process, but also the international community’s confidence in the sustainable aviation fuels certification system,” said Bruno Alves of Brazil’s UNEM.
The U.S. State Department has raised concerns but declined public comment. Brazil’s agriculture ministry also did not respond.
Photo Credit: shutterstock-dickgage
Categories: National