A joint research center to research the use of biofuel in the Brazilian aviation industry is to be opened in Brazil by Boeing and Embraer S.A.

The center, in addition to its own research efforts, will fund and coordinate research efforts with Brazilian universities and other institutions to address gaps in a supply chain for sustainable aviation biofuel in Brazil. Areas tackled will include gaps in feedstock production and processing technologies for biofuel.

"Boeing is working aggressively around the world to expand the supply of sustainable aviation biofuel and reduce aviation's carbon emissions," said Julie Felgar, managing director of Environmental Strategy and Integration, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "With our joint biofuel research center, Boeing and Embraer are making a strong commitment toward a successful, sustainable aviation biofuel industry in Brazil."

"Embraer is committed in supporting the development of sustainable biofuels for aviation and the joint efforts with Boeing will undoubtedly contribute to the company continuing to be in the forefront of research in this area," added Mauro Kern, Executive Vice President, Engineering and Technology, Embraer. "Brazil has tradition in the area of alternative fuels and enormous potential yet to be explored in bio-energy research."