An investment by Archer Daniels Midland in sustainable palm production in Brazil will encompass about 12,000 hectares (30,000 acres) of palm production and include construction of a palm processing plant, Decatur-based ADM said on Wednesday.

ADM expects construction of the processing plant near Sao Domingos do Capin to begin in 2013 with operations starting in 2016. Palm production will take place in the state of Para.

"This investment adds a new crop to our value chain in Brazil and diversifies our feedstock options for biodiesel production there, while at the same time supporting our commitment to sustainability in terms of both agricultural production and the livelihoods of farm families in Brazil," said Patricia Woertz, chairman, chief executive officer and president of ADM.