Minas Gerais is an ideal location in Brazil for bioenergy projects due to its climate and large population. The region comprises one-fifth of Brazil's landmass across 10 states, including Minas Gerais, with a population of 55 million people, or one-third of Brazil's total. The Brazilian government established the National Biodiesel Production and Use Program in 2004 to boost renewable fuels, create rural jobs, reduce inequality, and improve the environment.