Samenvatting
This paper analyses the technological, economical, social and practical impacts of the use of biomass fuels in Brazil. It shows how that idea became a reality, what were the main problems faced and traces perspectives for the future of that alternative energy source in Brazil. It also shows how a similar programme could help other developing nations to achieve a relative energetic independence from imported oil, by means of applying a fuel usage profile that is regarded as environmentally beneficial, economically advantageous and seen by many as a powerful tool for socio-economic development of the producing regions. (A)