Corteva and bp Launch Etlas Biofuel Venture

New joint venture plans large scale crop based feedstock for clean fuels

Corteva and bp have announced the launch of Etlas, a new joint venture focused on producing oilseed crops for biofuel production. Etlas will grow crops such as canola, mustard, and sunflower to create feedstock for sustainable aviation fuel and renewable diesel. 

The venture brings together Corteva’s expertise in seed technology and bp’s experience in fuel refining and marketing. The goal is to build a strong and reliable supply of plant-based feedstock to meet the fast-growing global demand for cleaner fuels. 

Etlas plans to produce one million metric tonnes of feedstock each year by the mid-2030s. This amount could support the production of more than 800,000 tonnes of biofuel annually. Initial supplies are expected to begin in 2027 and will be used at existing refineries and dedicated biofuel plants. 

“By helping found Etlas, Corteva continues to deliver on two critical parts of our mission: to help fuel the world and to support farmers. Agriculture is part of the solution, and we are excited to see Etlas come to life,” said Judd O’Connor, executive vice president of Corteva’s seed business.    

Global demand for sustainable aviation fuel and renewable diesel is rising quickly. Industry estimates show that demand for SAF could reach 10 million tonnes by 2030, while renewable diesel demand could grow to 35 million tonnes. Etlas aims to help meet this growing need with a dependable and scalable supply. 

The crops used by Etlas will be grown on existing farmland between main food crop seasons. These crops can improve soil health and provide farmers with an extra source of income without requiring additional land. 

Etlas will be led by Ignacio Conti as Chief Executive Officer, with Gaurav Sonar serving as Chair of the Board. The company plans to work closely with farmers around the world to expand production and support clean energy goals. 

Through Etlas, agriculture will play an important role in supporting cleaner fuel solutions for transportation while offering farmers new opportunities for revenue and sustainability. 

“As the aviation industry looks for reliable, sustainable and cost-competitive sources of SAF, it is clear farmers have a critical role to play,” said Etlas CEO, Ignacio Conti. “Etlas brings together global leaders in agriculture innovation and energy production to harness this demand by leveraging technological expertise and trusted relationships with farmers around the world to help scale production and boost supply while offering farmers new revenue streams.”