In Nova Odessa, São Paulo, Ambipar has developed Ambiálcool, an ethanol made from food waste like candies, chocolates, and juices, since 2021. Tested in a Citroën Basalt, it delivers performance and consumption nearly identical to conventional ethanol. The project, born during the pandemic’s ethanol shortage, aims to cut industrial waste and emissions by partnering with companies like Mondelēz. Approved by Brazil’s ANP, the fuel reaches 95% purity and is compatible with flex engines.
The initiative reuses discarded materials, reducing landfill waste. It converts 500 tons of residues into 300,000 liters of ethanol, often outperforming cane-based production. Key features include:
- High-purity ethanol from food industry byproducts.
- Reduced reliance on agricultural crops.
- Lower carbon footprint compared to fossil fuels.
Production process unveiled
The process begins with collecting sugar- and starch-rich food waste, discarded due to expiration or quality standards. These materials undergo biological fermentation in partner distilleries.
Distillation yields hydrated ethanol meeting ANP standards. The high sugar content in items like candies boosts efficiency, sometimes surpassing traditional cane ethanol.
Test results highlight performance
Tests on a Citroën Basalt compared Ambiálcool to standard ethanol across urban and highway conditions. Urban consumption reached 9.3 km/l versus 10.1 km/l for conventional ethanol.
Highway tests showed 11.9 km/l against 12.5 km/l. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h took 15.7 seconds with Ambiálcool, a 3.8% difference from 15.2 seconds with regular ethanol.
The Brazilian Automotive Engineering Association noted minimal differences in torque and responsiveness. Maximum speed remained steady at 140 km/h for both fuels.
Environmental and economic benefits
Ambiálcool reduces landfill waste, with Brazil’s food industry generating thousands of tons daily. It cuts emissions by up to 90% compared to fossil fuels, supporting circular economy principles.
The fuel’s cost, at R$4.27 per liter, aligns with market ethanol prices. Potential carbon credit sales could lower costs further.
The process also yields cleaning solutions as byproducts. Over 500,000 liters have been produced since the project’s start.
Plans for expansion
Ambipar aims to double production capacity by late 2025, seeking new industry partnerships. Its 22-vehicle fleet in Nova Odessa currently uses the fuel.
Negotiations with additional distilleries and suppliers are ongoing. The project has earned accolades, including the 2025 Green Product Awards.
Research into hydrogen reactor applications is underway, expanding potential uses.
Obstacles to commercialization
The fuel’s distinct hospital-like odor may affect consumer acceptance. Lack of government incentives hinders scalability.
Infrastructure for waste collection and processing needs investment. Regulatory progress for mass distribution is gradual.
Experts see Ambiálcool as a model for sustainable fuel innovation.
