The EU is considering increasing the ethanol blend in gasoline to up to 20%.

The European Commission is considering allowing an increase in the ethanol blend in gasoline to up to 20% (E20), according to a letter from President Ursula von der Leyen sent to three German MEPs, as reported by the Bild newspaper on Thursday (23). Currently, the prevailing limit in the European Union is E10, with up to 10% renewable ethanol. The proposal involves a review of the Fuel Quality Directive, which could authorize the use of higher ethanol levels. According to Von der Leyen, the analysis will consider compatibility with the current vehicle fleet, the impacts on existing engines, and the need to encourage investment in advanced biofuels. The Commission highlighted that renewable ethanol can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by an average of 79% compared to fossil gasoline. The increased blend is seen as a short-term alternative to reduce emissions without the immediate need to replace the fleet. Furthermore, the measure comes at a time when the war in the Middle East between the United States and Iran, which led to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, has drastically impacted the supply of gasoline and other crude oil derivatives to the European bloc. The conflict has increasingly pressured lawmakers to find measures to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, as well as invest in renewable fuels.

This text was translated by machine from Brazilian Portuguese.