Macaúba palm as a promising resource for biodiversity-based bioeconomy and climate solutions in the tropics

Abstract

The global transition to a low-carbon economy requires scalable and inclusive solutions rooted in tropical biodiversity. In this context, macaúba palm (Acrocomia aculeata), a native palm species widely distributed across America, stands out as a promising biomass crop for renewable bioenergy production, bioproduct development, and climate change mitigation. The objective of this review was to examine the current state of research and innovation on the macaúba palm and to explore its potential as a model species for a biodiversity-based bioeconomy and climate solutions in the tropics. For this, the current state of knowledge on its ecological distribution, genetic diversity, domestication status, agronomic traits, and breeding strategies were synthesized. Advances in biomass valorization were also discussed, including pulp and kernel oil, protein-rich cakes, and co-products for bioenergy, biochar, and novel materials. Special attention was given to sustainability assessments (carbon balance and life-cycle analysis) and to the role of macaúba palm in integrated production systems and socioeconomic inclusion, particularly of smallholders. The review identifies major challenges for scaling-up the crop, including gaps in reproductive biology, lack of genotype-environment interaction data, and the need for public policies and decentralized value chains. Macaúba palm emerges as a strategic resource to promote regenerative land use, carbon sequestration, and circular bioeconomy models in tropical regions. Advancing its development requires integrated efforts in research, innovation, and governance.