The agreement between Cemvita and the Government of Rio Grande do Sul marks a significant step towards global leadership in the circular bioeconomy, with the new facility set to produce sustainable oil for SAF and an innovative biofertilizer.
In a landmark agreement set to position Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, at the forefront of the global circular bioeconomy, Cemvita, a U.S.-based industrial biotechnology company, has formalized plans to construct a state-of-the-art industrial plant in the southern Brazilian state. The engagement agreement, signed with Invest RS, outlines Cemvita’s intention to establish a facility to produce FermOil™, a sustainable oil crucial for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), and FermNPK™, an innovative biofertilizer designed to support regenerative agriculture.
Acting governor Gabriel Souza emphasized the strategic importance of this collaboration, stating, “Rio Grande do Sul takes another important step toward becoming a global reference in innovation and bioeconomy. This partnership with Cemvita reinforces our commitment to sustainability, the attraction of high-impact investments, and the creation of opportunities for the people of Rio Grande do Sul in strategic sectors such as renewable energy, agriculture, and industry.” His remarks underscore the state's proactive approach to fostering a sustainable and innovation-driven economy.
The upcoming facility will be groundbreaking as the first industrial-scale plant globally to utilize Cemvita’s unique bioconversion technology. This technology will transform crude glycerol, a readily available byproduct, into low-carbon oil, which will then serve as a vital feedstock for SAF production. Simultaneously, the plant will produce the biofertilizer, FermNPK™, contributing to more sustainable agricultural practices. This dual production model highlights a holistic approach to waste valorization and resource efficiency.
This strategic move by Cemvita is further strengthened by an existing partnership with Be8, a prominent biofuel pioneer also based in Rio Grande do Sul. This collaboration aims to fortify the entire SAF value chain, aligning with Be8’s long-term vision of becoming a leading provider of sustainable biofuel solutions. Such synergies are crucial for building a robust and resilient green energy ecosystem.
Rafael Prikladnicki, President of Invest RS, highlighted the pivotal role his organization played in facilitating this agreement: “The signing of this engagement agreement with Cemvita marks a strategic milestone for Rio Grande do Sul and reinforces our leadership in innovation and technology. Invest RS’s role is precisely to enable projects like this, connecting companies with our state and offering technical support and tailored solutions.” Invest RS offers comprehensive support, including specialized technical assistance, institutional coordination, value chain mapping, identification of suitable industrial areas, and assistance in securing economic and tax incentives.
Rio Grande do Sul was chosen strategically for this pioneering project due to its robust infrastructure, the ample availability of crude glycerol – a key raw material for Cemvita’s process – and its commendable track record in implementing low-carbon public policies.
