Challenges of Social and Environmental Certification of Biofuels in Brazil

Abstract

In this chapter we discuss the necessity of creating a multilateral standard of environmental and social certification that allows the increment of an international biofuel industry compatible with the ecological development goals. We highlight the undesired effects that the absence of international parameters on this matter may bring to developing countries such as Brazil, which does not prioritize the minimum requisites of environmental sustainability and basic social standards, becoming an easy target of disguised protectionism by competitors. We contrast examples of international certification schemes and debate whether this matter should be under regulation of the World Trade Organization.