The Brazilian Semi-Arid region (BSA) displays a high degree of anthropic changes in its natural settings, as a result of ancient agriculture and animal husbandry practices and of the inadequate use of natural resources. However, despite its limited availability of water, the region still has great diversity in vegetation, soil, climate, and, above all, a strong tradition related to family farming. Despite this socio-environmental diversity, the BSA is associated with the lowest Human Development Index (HDI) scores in the country, with low land prices and with high demographic density. The production of raw materials for biodiesel production is an opportunity to improve regional socio-economic standards.