Diamond Green Diesel, a Texas refinery supplying green fuel to U.S. airlines, sourced animal fat from illegally cleared Amazon lands. The refinery, a joint venture between Darling Ingredients and Valero Energy, invested millions in turning cattle fat into cleaner jet fuel. Companies like JetBlue and Southwest Airlines used this fuel, claiming emissions reduction under a UN agreement.

The global market for sustainable jet fuel is small but growing, with government incentives expected to boost growth. Environmentalists warn that demand could lead to Amazon deforestation and violations of Brazilian law. Investigations reveal the complex supply chain connecting the Amazon to Diamond Green Diesel, raising questions about sustainability practices.

Diamond Green Diesel sourced tallow from Brazilian factories linked to deforestation. Despite regulations, the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification approved imports as sustainable, overlooking environmental concerns. Experts question whether current standards adequately address the impact of sourcing animal fat from illegally cleared Amazon lands for biofuel production. Airlines face scrutiny over their green fuel sourcing practices.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: How a Texas refinery turns Amazon-destroying cattle into ‘green’ jet fuel