Section 45z of the federal Inflation Reduction Act creates tax credits that incentivize biofuel producers to use lower-CI feedstocks to help reduce the carbon intensity of transportation fuels. By adopting regenerative agriculture practices that lower carbon intensity, Scoular’s network of farmers can be better positioned to provide data biofuel producers will need and qualify for potential incentives under 45z.
The goal of the partnership, announced Oct. 8, is to provide flexibility for Scoular’s farmers and buyers. CIBO Impact, a scalable software platform, enables Scoular to start collecting data now and design new programs to address regulatory changes in the future. Scoular can now quantify the benefits of its farmers’ regenerative practices and help them to monetize positive environmental outcomes.
“At Scoular, we’re committed to developing the solutions our farmers need to thrive in the rapidly evolving sustainability landscape,” said Beth Stebbins, director of sustainability at Scoular. “Our partnership with CIBO Technologies allows us to stay ahead of regulatory changes and build a data-driven foundation for regenerative agriculture. This collaboration allows us to prepare for 45z now and adapt the final program to meet the needs of our biofuel customers once the framework is finalized.”
CIBO, based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, US, applies advanced software to deliver a deep understanding of agricultural systems at scale. The company focuses on delivering solutions that drive regenerative agriculture to help mitigate climate change, advance food system resilience and improve grower outcomes.
“Since day one, CIBO has set out to support sustainability innovators, meeting them where they are in their journey and working with them to create meaningful impacts,” said Daniel Ryan, chief executive officer of CIBO Technologies. “As an industry leader, Scoular recognizes that now is the time to take action, and while the wider impacts of 45z remain uncertain, our partnership is all about staying ahead of the curve.”