Brazil Pioneers Bioethanol Bunkering for Maritime Decarbonization at Santos Port

On July 12, 2026, Brazil made a significant leap forward in maritime sustainability with the successful completion of its first bioethanol bunkering for a deep-sea containership, the CMA CGM IRON, at the Port of Santos. This pioneering event, orchestrated by CMA CGM, Copersucar, and Bunker One along with other key stakeholders, underscores Brazil’s ambition to be at the forefront of decarbonizing the shipping industry.

A Milestone for Maritime Transport

The operation not only represents a major milestone for maritime transport but also reinforces bioethanol's status as a viable and renewable fuel option. As global shipping navigates toward greener alternatives, this initiative highlights Brazil's capacity to lead in the use of biofuels. The collaboration involved crucial players, including the largest liquid bulk storage operator AGEO Terminais, Santos Brasil, the leading container terminal in Brazil, and the notable Bunker One, showcasing a united front towards sustainability.

Bioethanol supplied by Copersucar comes from a well-established, certified supply chain that sources from sugarcane, primarily cultivated on degraded pastureland. The deployment aligns with Brazil's RenovaBio program, which enforces strict sustainability and zero-deforestation standards, further cementing bioethanol as a responsible choice for the maritime sector.

Logistical Excellence and Collaborative Efforts

Executing such a complex operation required in-depth logistical and operational coordination among multiple stakeholders. This included transporting the bioethanol to the port, storing it in specialized infrastructure, and transferring it to the vessel using a barge designed for safety and efficiency. Various regulatory bodies and port authorities were involved, enhancing the overall execution of this innovative initiative.

Christine Cabau Woehrel, Executive Vice President at CMA CGM, emphasized that this successful operation demonstrates how innovation can progress from theoretical applications to practical maritime solutions. The CMA CGM IRON, equipped with a cutting-edge tri-fuel engine capable of operating on bioethanol, exemplifies the technological advancements supporting green shipping initiatives.

Strengthening Brazil's Role in Sustainable Shipping

The first bioethanol bunkering not only serves as proof of concept but also sets the stage for the Port of Santos to emerge as a low-carbon marine fuels hub for South America. With its strategic position as the continent’s largest port, Santos is poised to be a crucial link between Brazil's renewable energy capabilities and the international maritime industry’s fuel needs. CMA CGM’s acquisition of Santos Brasil in 2025 points to a long-term commitment to enhancing the port's infrastructure and fostering partnerships essential for a successful energy transition in maritime transport.

As CMA CGM aims for Net Zero Carbon by 2050, the group continues to explore the most effective strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The successful trial at Santos serves as a stepping stone toward operating a fleet of approximately 200 vessels equipped for low-carbon energy usage by 2031.

The Future of Maritime Fuels

The collaboration doesn't just track current progress; it sets a direction for the future. The commitment of organizations like Copersucar, which works on bioenergy solutions, and Bunker One, noted for their sustainability practices, highlight an industry-wide embrace of environmentally responsible operations. Bunker One's Flavio Ribeiro remarked on the hopeful trajectory of the global fleet toward readiness for alternative fuels, with hundreds of vessels anticipated to operate using non-fossil fuels in the coming years.

As Brazil forges ahead in establishing bioethanol as a mainstream maritime fuel, this initiative not only advances sustainable shipping but also reinforces the country’s leadership in the global transition to a low-carbon economy. Through collaborations and innovative practices, Brazil has positioned itself not just as a participant but as a leader in the maritime decarbonization journey, reflecting a commitment to a cleaner, more sustainable future.