BASF has introduced a new digital platform called Circalo: Low Carbon Intensity Crops to help farmers and ethanol producers work together to reduce the carbon level of crops used for fuel. The company said the system is designed to support the Clean Fuel Production Credit under Section 45Z, according to ALCHEMPro.
The platform links farmers, agronomists, and biorefineries through BASF’s digital tools, including xarvio FIELD MANAGER and xarvio BIOENERGY. It allows information from farms to be collected, organized, and checked so that ethanol producers can use the data to support cleaner fuel production.
As the U.S. ethanol industry prepares for Section 45Z, the carbon level of farm crops is expected to play an important role in competition and market access. While many farmers already use methods that can reduce emissions, ethanol producers need dependable systems to record and confirm those efforts so they can be included in plant-level calculations.
BASF officials said the new platform aims to combine farming knowledge with financial benefits. The company said farmers may receive additional income and recognition for using conservation practices.
The system is designed to record farm activities such as planting cover crops, reducing soil disturbance, and improving fertilizer management. These practices can influence the carbon level of crops under the proposed rules. However, BASF said inconsistent data collection and limited verification options have made it difficult for ethanol plants to fully include farm improvements in their planning.
Circalo gathers farm data through agronomists using xarvio FIELD MANAGER. The information is then shared across a biorefinery’s supplier network. When connected with xarvio BIOENERGY and reviewed by an independent third party, the system can generate a verified report that meets regulatory requirements and may help qualify for potential incentives.
The platform also gives ethanol producers an overall picture of their low-carbon crop supply, including total production and average carbon levels. BASF said this creates a clear connection between farm practices and fuel production targets.
The company added that the system includes independent review to support regulatory and audit needs under Section 45Z.
BASF said the platform is intended for farmers, agronomists, and ethanol plants. Using xarvio BIOENERGY, biorefineries can set up their own programs to secure verified low-carbon crops, align incentives for farmers, and strengthen relationships within their supply chains. The company said this approach focuses on measurable results based on actual farm data.
Officials described the system as specially developed for the ethanol sector. They said it helps producers coordinate farm support with carbon goals and improve long-term cooperation with growers.
For farmers, the platform is designed to make participation easier by recording current practices and identifying ways to further improve carbon performance. BASF said it wants to ensure that farmers and their advisers have a clear way to participate as demand for low-carbon farming grows.
The company said the system is ready for the 2026 growing season and can also be used for the 2025 season where applicable. It is designed to adapt as final government guidance is issued, allowing flexibility as rules and verification standards continue to develop.
