The importance of technological innovation in the logistics of ethanol exports

Abstract

This paper analyzes the technological status of the bulk liquids logistical process at the port of Santos. The main objective is to identify problems encountered in port logistics for the export of ethanol and evaluate their respective technological innovation perspectives. Ethanol exports have increased given international environmental appeals. Within the complex and uncertain environments that contemporary corporations are experiencing, environmental issues have captured global attention. There is an awareness as to the relevance of reducing pollutant emissions to the atmosphere and one of the manners of so doing is by utilising ethanol as a source of propulsion energy fuelling automobile engines. Brazil is one of largest, high quality, ethanol producers in the world and a strong competitor to serve the global market given that the quality of the port logistic infrastructure poses significant impact on exports. Thus, this article proposes to further deepen the theory fundamentals alongside research conducted at companies of South-central Brazil´s sugar alcohol supply chain sector. The study´s analytical model is based on bibliographical research, monitoring and descriptive field surveys at companies within the segment. The article demonstrates that although the logistical process is evolving technologically, further investments in logistic infrastructure is required so as to obtain a sustainable competitive advantage and ensure the feasibility of exports of the Brazilian product.Key words: logistic process, technological innovation and ethanol.