BiocharBiochar is a carbon-rich material created from biomass decomposition in low-oxygen conditions. It has important applications in environmental remediation, soil improvement, agriculture, carbon sequestration, energy storage, and sustainable materials, promoting efficiency and reducing waste in various contexts while addressing climate change challenges. More is a charcoal-like material derived from biomassBiomass is a complex biological organic or non-organic solid product derived from living or recently living organism and available naturally. Various types of wastes such as animal manure, waste paper, sludge and many industrial wastes are also treated as biomass because like natural biomass these More pyrolysisPyrolysis is a thermochemical process that converts waste biomass into bio-char, bio-oil, and pyro-gas. It offers significant advantages in waste valorization, turning low-value materials into economically valuable resources. Its versatility allows for tailored products based on operational conditions, presenting itself as a cost-effective and efficient More, a process that heats biomass in the absence of oxygen. In their paper published in Cleaner Waste Systems, Zhou et al., explore the potential of biochar to address a range of environmental challenges. The versatility of biochar is highlighted, discussing its traditional applications in soil enhancement and water treatment, as well as its emerging roles in energy storage, pollution cleanup, and construction materials.

One of the key areas of focus is the production of biochar from sustainable and unconventional feedstocks. Traditionally, biochar has been produced from agricultural waste and nut shells. However, the potential of using new sources such as algae, invasive plant species, and various types of sludge from wastewater treatment and biorefineries is highlighted. These alternative feedstocks not only contribute to waste reduction but also offer unique properties that can enhance the applications of biochar. The optimization of the biochar supply chain through digital technologies is also discussed. Efficient logistics is emphasized for managing the collection, transportation, and storage of biomass feedstocks. The use of Supply Chain Digital Twins (SCDTs) to model and monitor the supply chain in real-time is explored, enabling producers to optimize operations and reduce costs and emissions. Additionally, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in sorting and production processes is highlighted as a means to improve efficiency and quality control.

Furthermore, the role of biochar in advanced energy storage systems is explored. Biochar’s porosityPorosity of biochar is a key factor in its effectiveness as a soil amendment and its ability to retain water and nutrients. Biochar’s porosity is influenced by feedstock type and pyrolysis temperature, and it plays a crucial role in microbial activity and overall soil health. Biochar More and electrical conductivity make it a promising material for electrodes in batteries and supercapacitors. The potential of biochar to replace traditional carbonaceous materials is discussed, offering a more sustainable and cost-effective solution. Finally, the potential of biochar to address emerging environmental problems is emphasized. Biochar’s ability to adsorb pollutants makes it an effective tool for removing microplastics from water, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and immobilizing heavy metals in soil. The use of biochar in environmental sensors and construction composites is also discussed, further expanding its potential applications.

The review provide a comprehensive overview of the potential of biochar to contribute to a sustainable future. From its production from diverse feedstocks to its applications in various fields, biochar emerges as a versatile and promising material for addressing environmental challenges and promoting a circular economy.

SOURCE: Zhou, S., Yang, X., Tran, T.-K., Shen, J., & An, C. (2025). Paving the way for biochar production, supply chain, and applications toward a sustainable future. Cleaner Waste Systems, 10, 100227. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clwas.2025.100227