Zimbabwe targets hiking ethanol production to cont...

Zimbabwe targets hiking ethanol production to control pollution and reduce fuel import costs

How to Make Ethanol From Sugar Cane | LEAFtv

ZimNow Reporter

In a bid to tackle air pollution and reduce its dependence on costly fuel imports, the Zimbabwean government has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding ethanol production as part of a broader climate and economic strategy.

A recent visit by the parliamentary energy committee to a longstanding ethanol plant underscored the nation’s push to meet its biofuel targets, including a 20% ethanol blend in petrol—a policy officials say will deliver both environmental and fiscal dividends.

Current blending levels hover at 5-10%, depending on ethanol production levels.

During the inspection of the ethanol facility, operational since 1980 and capable of producing 40 million liters annually, lawmakers assessed the plant’s efficiency and explored avenues to bolster output.

The committee emphasized the facility’s robust condition and potential to scale operations, highlighting ethanol blending as a "win-win" for Zimbabwe’s climate goals and economic stability.

By mandating a 20% ethanol blend in petrol, Zimbabwe aims to slash harmful emissions from vehicles, aligning with global climate resilience efforts.

Ethanol, a renewable fuel derived from sugarcane, reduces carbon monoxide and particulate matter, improving urban air quality.

Ramping up domestic ethanol production will reduce fuel import costs, redirecting funds toward critical sectors like healthcare and infrastructure.

With upgrades and sustained investment, officials believe the sector could exceed current production levels, creating jobs in agriculture and manufacturing. The parliamentary committee also discussed incentivizing private sector partnerships to modernize the industry.