Recognise ethanol and CBG as carbon neutral fuels

As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, energy security, and economic growth, the importance of leveraging multiple clean energy options — including biofuels such as ethanol and Compressed Biogas (CBG)  —  cannot be overstated. India’s flagship Ethanol Blending Programme (EBP) has been a phenomenal success, increasing the blending rate from 1.5 per cent in 2014 to 20 per cent in 2025. Additionally, the Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation (SATAT) initiative has promoted the use of CBG as a clean and sustainable fuel.

Ethanol and CBG are both carbon neutral fuels, as the carbon emitted during their use is recaptured by the feedstock used to produce them. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) states that the biogenic portion of pure ethanol is 100 per cent , making it a carbon neutral fuel. Similarly, CBG — also known as biomethane — is a renewable energy source produced from organic waste, which can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Benefits of Ethanol and CBG

Their use can yield numerous benefits, including:

• Ethanol and CBG can help reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels, thereby improving energy security and reducing trade deficits.
• Lowering greenhouse gas emissions: The use of ethanol and CBG can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to a cleaner environment and mitigating climate change.
• The production of ethanol and CBG can provide new opportunities for farmers and rural communities, boosting their income and livelihoods.

As the initiator of the Global Biofuel Alliance (GBA), India has a unique opportunity to take the lead in securing global recognition of ethanol and CBG as carbon neutral fuels. By collaborating with member nations of the GBA and the Global South, India can advocate for the inclusion of the environmental benefits of ethanol and CBG in the joint statement at COP 30. This will help the Global South to holistically achieve the three ‘Es’ — energy transition, economic growth, and ecological sustainability

Key Recommendations for COP 30

• The joint statement at COP 30 should acknowledge the scientific fact that ethanol and CBG are carbon neutral fuels, based on their biogenic nature and life cycle analysis.
• Adopt multiple clean energy options, including biofuels, to achieve decarbonisation and energy security.
• COP statement should recognise the unique circumstances of countries in the global south and support their efforts to achieve energy transition and ecological sustenance.

By taking a leadership role in promoting ethanol and CBG as carbon neutral fuels, India can help shape the global agenda for sustainable energy transition and ensure a more equitable and scientifically-driven approach to addressing climate change.

The writer is a Founder Director at IFGE and a public policy expert on infrastructure, sustainable mobility, and bioenergy