Sugarcane industry is one of the most important agribusiness sectors in Brazil, which receives foreign investments for expansion, due to great international interest. However, its expansion has been subject to control and restrictions related to sustainability imposed by foreign institutions and governments in developed countries. The present work aimed to assess the progress of ethanol plants from the region of Triangulo Mineiro, located in the state of Minas Gerais, and their sustainability. It also provides information that can support local development and industry structure, based on the discussion of important issues to business, government and society. To obtain all the necessary information, a survey questionnaire was prepared and applied in the sugar ethanol plants and associations of sugarcane producers. This survey instrument included questions pertaining to current sustainability requirements, and questions to characterize producers and industries in this meso-region. The results revealed that companies and farmers are aware of the international and national agreements regarding sustainability and they are trying to meet all the requirements stated by those policies. The study not only demonstrates the evolution of the sector, but also the high level of the sustainable practices being adopted. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.