Luis Fernando Salazar and Juan Pablo Solís
Association of Latin American Sugar Producers – UNALA, 5ta. avenida 5-55 zona 14, Edificio Europlaza torre 3 nivel 18, Guatemala City, Guatemala; lfsalazar@unala.org
The Latin American sugar agroindustry plays a crucial role in economic development of member countries, yet its sustainability challenges need ongoing improvements in environmental management, resource efficiency, and innovation. This paper documents and analyzes 17 case studies of best practices implemented by the members of the Association of Latin American Sugar Producers (UNALA), focusing on environmental and economic sustainability within the framework of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). A case study methodology is used, compiling documented sustainability programs from UNALA members across 12 countries. Each case study was selected based on measurable impacts, and alignment with SDGs. The research was conducted through field visits, interviews with industry stakeholders, and an analysis of sustainability reports between 2023 and 2025. The results highlight advancements in sustainable water management, renewable energy production, and research initiatives. Guatemala’s sugar industry reduced its water footprint by 38% through efficient irrigation and wastewater reuse, while Chile’s precision irrigation programs achieved 90% water savings. In energy, sugarcane bagasse cogeneration supplied 27% of Guatemala’s electricity, and Argentina’s biomass energy program increased renewable energy use from 38% to 52%. Brazil’s RenovaBio program facilitated ethanol-based decarbonization, avoiding over 100 Mt of CO₂ emissions. Additionally, research institutions such as Cenicaña (Colombia), Cengicaña (Guatemala), and CIDCA (Mexico) contributed to sustainability through climate-resilient crop development and precision agriculture. The findings underscore the Latin American sugar agroindustry’s commitment to sustainability through the implementation of best practices. The case studies provide benchmarks for scaling sustainable practices in agriculture and industry. Future efforts should focus on expanding case study documentation for each of UNALA’s members. Strengthening collaborations among industry stakeholders and policymakers will be essential to drive continuous innovation and ensure long-term environmental and economic sustainability.