Historically, biomass has provided a large share of Brazil's energy supply. Despite its relevance, the success of some biomass programs has been constrained by short-term priorities to the detriment of long-term policies. The potential of biomass will only be accomplished if further activities are focused on sustainability in a broader sense. Arnaldo Walter, State University of Campinas, Brazil assesses bioenergy use in the country, highlighting past programs, activities and barriers to accomplishing future goals.