In an article published in GCB Bioenergy, Nafisa N. Ahmed et al., explored the feasibility of 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 production from forest 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 in Michigan, comparing stationary and portable production systems. The study assessed biomass availability, identified optimal production locations, and evaluated the potential for biochar to enhance local agriculture.  

Using forest biomass for biochar production could create new markets, especially in rural areas, and support forest management by utilizing underused resources.  The study examined the Upper and Lower Peninsulas in Michigan, focusing on potential locations for biochar production facilities and the procurement zones for biomass. The research considered both stationary facilities, which are large-scale, and portable units, which can be relocated to various sites.  

The study found that stationary facilities in the Lower Peninsula could produce 71% more biochar than the Upper Peninsula due to greater biomass availability and better infrastructure. In contrast, portable units, while less efficient in terms of yield, offer the advantage of accessing more dispersed biomass resources.  The economic analysis revealed that the minimum selling price of biochar varies between stationary ($1340/ton in LP and $1606/ton in UP) and portable units ($2350/ton in both regions), reflecting differences in production capacities and operational costs.  

The study suggest that stationary facilities are more suitable for the Lower Peninsula, where biomass is abundant and infrastructure is well-developed. Portable units may be better suited for the Upper Peninsula, where resources are more dispersed. The researchers emphasize that optimizing biochar production can support sustainable agriculture and provide economic opportunities, provided that there are strategic investments and policy support.

SOURCE: Ahmed, N. N., Pokharel, R., Miesel, J., & Saffron, C. M. (2025). Assessing FeedstockFeedstock refers to the raw organic material used to produce biochar. This can include a wide range of materials, such as wood chips, agricultural residues, and animal manure. More Availability and Economic Feasibility of Utilizing Forest Biomass for Biochar Production in Stationary and Portable Systems in Michigan. GCB Bioenergy, 17(e70030).