According to audited data released today by ePURE, the European renewable ethanol association, EU ethanol biorefineries produced more food and animal feed than fuel in 2023.
As per press release, ePURE members, who represent 85% of the EU’s installed capacity, along with other European renewable ethanol producers, generated 6.5 million tonnes of co-products such as high-protein animal feed and 5.08 million tonnes of renewable ethanol last year. Additionally, the production included 1.46 million tonnes of captured biogenic CO2, which is used to replace fossil CO2 in beverages and greenhouse applications.
ePURE Director General David Carpintero remarked, “Renewable ethanol biorefineries are a crucial strategic asset for the EU. These figures demonstrate that European biorefineries contribute to reducing carbon emissions, securing food systems, ensuring energy independence, and building agricultural and industrial autonomy. To meet our carbon neutrality goals, strengthen food systems, and advance towards a more sustainable future, the EU must fully leverage their potential.”
The press release further stated that all crops used by the audited biorefineries were sourced from European farmers. Of the renewable ethanol produced, 85.9% was used for fuel. The remainder was allocated as follows: 6.5% for industrial purposes, including hand sanitizers, and 7.6% for food and beverage applications.
The audit also revealed that European ethanol producers achieved record-high greenhouse gas (GHG) savings, averaging 79.1% compared to fossil petrol. This significant reduction in emissions is vital for the decarbonization of transport, especially as petrol and hybrid vehicles will continue to be prevalent on European roads for years to come.
ePURE represents 41 member companies and associations with approximately 50 plants across the EU and the UK. The statistics were compiled from ePURE members and other European renewable ethanol producers and were certified by the auditing firm Copartner.
