Unilever Converts Mayonnaise Waste into Renewable Energy
Unilever is leveraging a biodigester at its Pouso Alegre facility in Brazil to turn mayonnaise waste into biogas, enhancing circular economy efforts. This innovative project, operational since 2023, is the first of its kind in the Americas, significantly reducing CO₂ emissions.

Unilever's Pouso Alegre factory in Minas Gerais has implemented a biodigester to transform mayonnaise waste into biogas, aiming to close the organic byproduct cycle. The project, operational since 2023, is expected to reduce CO₂ emissions by 350 to 400 tons annually and achieve financial returns within five years.
The initiative reflects the company's commitment to circular economy and emission reduction, addressing the technical challenge of breaking down stable mayonnaise. Developed in collaboration with Unicamp, the biodigester incorporates high automation and integrates biotechnology, chemical control, and energy reuse. The final phase, set for 2026, aims to enhance the plant's energy self-sufficiency.




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