From feedstock to fuel: Securing supply chains for a sustainable bioeconomy in Africa

We are pleased to invite you to join the Atlantic Council Global Energy Center on Friday, March 10 from 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM ET for the final roundtable of the three-part series on the future of the bioeconomy in Africa. This private, virtual roundtable will convene key stakeholders to discuss the economic viability of Africa’s bioeconomy and opportunities to secure a sustainable biofuel supply chain across the continent.

In a volatile energy market caused by Russia’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, coupled with decarbonization efforts, biofuels and bio-based products offer a sustainable and low-carbon solution to reduce global dependence on fossil fuels. As the United States and Europe work quickly to decarbonize air travel and electrify ground transportation, African nations are exploring applications of biofuels to meet immediate energy consumption needs without raising carbon emissions. In particular, biofuels can help reduce African dependence on petroleum and charcoal for transportation, chemicals, materials, and cooking fuels. The bioeconomy presents an opportunity for sustainable investment in African countries that are working to decarbonize while simultaneously accelerating economic growth.

Key to a productive bioeconomy is a sustainable supply chain from feedstock production to fuel distribution. Cooperation amongst stakeholders throughout the supply chain – including farmers, refiners, policy makers, and downstream users – combined with policy interventions and incentives contributes to the success of a viable bioeconomy.

During this private discussion, experts will discuss the economic benefits of blended fuels, opportunities to strengthen supply chains for biofuels, and the dual imperative of reducing poverty while stimulating green growth throughout the African continent. How can biofuel refineries work with governments and national oil companies to secure a sustainable supply chain? How can blended ethanol fuels reduce the cost of transportation for African consumers? What are opportunities to create a secondary income source for farmers to produce feedstock for biofuels that aren’t in competition with food production?

Please register here to receive Zoom information and a full program agenda. You will be able to join this conversation via the Zoom web application Zoom, the Zoom desktop or mobile app, and by phone.