Renewable Energy

Be8 & Cemvita Sign MOU to Develop SAF from Glycerin

Brazilian biodiesel leader Be8 and U.S.-based biotech firm Cemvita have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to develop low-carbon feedstock for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) using glycerin, a byproduct of biodiesel production.
Image provided by Be8

Key Takeaways

  • Partnership Announcement: Brazilian biodiesel leader Be8 and U.S.-based biotech firm Cemvita have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to develop low-carbon feedstock for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) using glycerin, a byproduct of biodiesel production.
  • Innovative SAF Development: The partnership will utilize Cemvita’s technology to convert crude glycerin from Be8’s operations into sustainable bio-oil for SAF production.
  • Broader Vision: This initiative aligns with Be8’s and Cemvita’s goals to advance the circular bioeconomy and reduce aviation emissions through innovative solutions.
  • Feasibility Study: A joint working group will explore the technical and economic feasibility of a glycerin-to-SAF raw material conversion plant in Brazil.

What is the Focus of the Partnership?

At the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Be8 and Cemvita announced a collaboration to create a low-carbon value chain for SAF production. The project will convert crude glycerin, a byproduct of biodiesel manufacturing, into sustainable bio-oil using Cemvita’s biotechnological processes.

Moji Karimi, CEO of Cemvita, stated: “We are now establishing an important partnership aimed at developing a new low-carbon value chain using residual raw material for the production of SAF by converting crude glycerin from Be8’s operations into sustainable bio-oil using our technology.”

Erasmo Carlos Battistella, President of Be8, added: “There is a growing demand for SAF produced from residual and circular feedstock, and we are excited to help the aviation industry deliver its long-term ambitious goals to reduce emissions with this innovative solution.”


Why is Glycerin Significant for SAF Production?

Glycerin is a byproduct of biodiesel production and has diverse applications in industries like cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food. The partnership between Be8 and Cemvita aims to expand its utility by transforming it into a raw material for SAF, addressing the aviation sector’s decarbonization challenges.


How Will the Collaboration Work?

The collaboration involves the formation of a joint working group tasked with conducting a detailed technical and economic feasibility study. This study will explore the bio-oil production process, business model details, and investment requirements for a glycerin-to-SAF conversion facility in Brazil.

The sustainable bio-oil produced from this partnership is also intended for use in the Omega Green Project, a biorefinery in Paraguay that will produce SAF, renewable diesel, and green naphtha.


What are the Broader Implications for the Bioeconomy?

This initiative is part of Be8’s larger strategy to strengthen Brazil’s position as a global leader in sustainable biofuel solutions. Cemvita’s CEO, Moji Karimi, highlighted the collaborative vision:
“For decades, Brazil has been a pioneer in bioeconomy, and now the time has come to create the future of circular bioeconomy. By partnering with Brazilian stakeholders, Cemvita intends to develop Brazil’s bioeconomy legacy, while also laying the groundwork for a circular and sustainable future.”

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