Brazilian Ministry of Mines and Energy (MME) and Ministry of the Environment (MMA) publish decree to expand the use of waste in biofuel production.

The Ministries of Mines and Energy and of the Environment and Climate Change published, this Tuesday (13), Interministerial Ordinance MME/MMA No. 3/2026, which establishes a minimum percentage for the use of residual oils and fats (ROF) in the production of biodiesel, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and green diesel. The measure reinforces the Brazilian Government's commitment to the energy transition and to expanding the use of lower carbon-intensive raw materials in the Brazilian energy matrix. The regulation complies with CNPE Resolution No. 13/2024 and was developed after a Regulatory Impact Analysis (RIA) process, public consultation and broad social participation, with contributions from the productive sector, environmental entities, representatives of the recycling chain and other interested parties. The National Agency of Petroleum, Natural Gas and Biofuels (ANP) will be responsible for regulating the mechanisms for monitoring and overseeing compliance with the target. The ordinance integrates the implementation of the Future Fuel Law by encouraging the reuse of waste as raw material for biofuels. The initiative contributes to reducing the carbon footprint, strengthens the circular economy, and expands the environmental gains associated with the production of more sustainable fuels. In addition to energy and climate benefits, the measure also encourages the environmentally sound disposal of used cooking oil, reducing irregular disposal in sewage systems and water bodies. This practice helps to decrease environmental impacts and costs related to urban sanitation. The regulation establishes a minimum target of 1% use of used cooking oil in relation to the total renewable raw materials used by biofuel producers. This percentage will be voluntary in 2026 and 2027 and will become mandatory from January 1, 2028. The measure also seeks to stimulate investments in the collection, traceability, and pre-treatment of waste, as well as recognizing the strategic role of cooperatives and associations of waste pickers in structuring the used cooking oil supply chain, promoting environmental, social, and economic benefits. 

This text was translated by machine from Brazilian Portuguese.