Amazon Taint: The Dark Side of Sustainable Aviation Fuel

A Texas refinery, supplying green fuel to U.S. airlines, is using cattle fat sourced from illegally deforested Amazon lands. The refinery, Diamond Green Diesel, faces scrutiny for its Brazilian supply chain tied to deforestation. Airlines using this 'green' fuel are under pressure to lower emissions.

In a controversial turn of events, a Texas-based refinery supplying green fuel to U.S. airlines has come under scrutiny for sourcing cattle fat from illegally deforested areas in the Amazon. The refinery, Diamond Green Diesel, is a joint venture between Darling Ingredients and Valero Energy. It transforms cattle fat into a cleaner alternative to traditional jet fuel and diesel.

Despite receiving over $3 billion in U.S. tax credits for biofuel production since 2022, Diamond Green Diesel's supply chain is now accused of contributing to Amazon deforestation. The company's Brazilian suppliers have been linked to ranches in illegally cleared areas, raising concerns about sustainability claims and legal implications.

This development poses challenges for airlines like JetBlue and Southwest that have invested in sustainable fuels to lower emissions. Critics argue that despite certifications, the supply chain's ties to deforestation undermine environmental efforts and potentially violate Brazilian law.

(With inputs from agencies.)