Biochar is seen as the only technically and economically already mature solution for large scale carbon sequestration. The biochar industry is considered right now on the starting point of a long-lasting boom in order to make a contribution to reduce the CO2 concentration in our atmosphere. To guarantee profitable biochar projects the design of appropriate business models, considering the usage of the produced biochar in a way with the highest added value, is key.
Biochar is a very versatile and valuable resource, which in contrast to CCS (Carbon Capture & Storage) solutions, which are favoured by the fossil industries, will play a key role in the transition towards a bioeconomy based on circularity concepts.
CARBON TURNAROUND was invited by its partner company ECOCONSULTANTS to do an in-depth market study about the possible use options for biochar considering process parameters of the pyrolysis process, used organic feedstock and the final use of the biochar product. This study is considering all market-ready usage options starting from traditional use of biochar as soil amendment and other applications in the agricultural sector, use as energy carrier, its use in industrial processes like cement production or green steel production, its use as environmental absorber for soil, water and air decontamination up to recently evolving high-tech usages like its use as resource for the production of composite materials, building materials and for energy storage application.
This market study was done as part of a broader research project, which was undertaken by one of the leading universities in waste management and circularity in Austria. We are happy for being part of this interesting and pathbreaking research project which hopefully will make a meaningful contribution to the growing biochar industry!