Transport infrastructure and low-carbon agriculture in Brazil: challenges and perspectives of railway transport

Abstract

Brazil faces a growing tension between the expansion of agricultural production and the need to mitigate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. In this context, Low Carbon Agriculture (LCA) has emerged as a central sustainability strategy. However, public policies have mainly focused on on-farm practices, neglecting key stages of the agricultural supply chain, such as transport infrastructure. This article analyzes the role of transport infrastructure in promoting low-carbon agriculture in Brazil, with emphasis on the railway sector. This is an exploratory bibliographic study based on specialized literature and institutional reports. The results indicate that the predominance of road transport increases logistical costs, intensifies losses, and contributes significantly to GHG emissions, while rail transport presents higher energy efficiency and lower environmental impact. The study concludes that integrating logistics infrastructure into sustainability policies is essential for the effectiveness of the ABC Plan, requiring stronger state coordination and long-term planning.