Brazilian meatpacker JBS announced on Monday that it is supplying animal waste from its international operations for the production of renewable aviation fuels and is exploring similar opportunities in Brazil through its Friboi brand.
The company, which is the world's largest meatpacker, has already redirected 1.2 million metric tons of beef tallow and pork lard from its facilities in the United States, Canada, and Australia for the production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and other renewable fuels over the past two years.
In Brazil, JBS's Friboi brand has initiated studies to assess the viability of supplying animal waste for local SAF production. This effort is part of a broader strategy to support commercial aviation's reduction of carbon emissions.
“By reusing animal waste, we contribute to the environment and help this critical sector in its decarbonization process,” said Jason Weller, JBS's global chief sustainability officer. He added that the initiative underscores the company's commitment to responsible waste management and the circular economy.
JBS is also evaluating the potential for producing renewable fuel for shipping as an alternative to bunker oil through Biopower, its biodiesel manufacturing arm.
Biopower operates three plants in Brazil that produce biofuel from organic waste derived from cattle processing. JBS, controlled by the J&F holding company owned by Brazilian billionaires Joesley and Wesley Batista, continues to seek expansion in sustainable energy initiatives.
