In a recent review published in Environment, Development and Sustainability, Anandapadmanaban et al., highlight the potential 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, a carbon-rich material, to address pressing environmental challenges. The authors explore how biochar, produced from various waste materials, can contribute to carbon dioxide (CO2) sequestration and offer a wide array of other applications.

The study emphasizes that biochar’s ability to absorb CO2 makes it a valuable tool in mitigating climate change. Traditional methods of waste disposal, such as landfilling and incineration, often exacerbate environmental problems. However, producing biochar from waste sources like plants, animals, and municipal waste not only reduces CO2 emissions but also creates a product with diverse uses.

Biochar’s applications extend beyond carbon sequestration. The review identifies its use in biofuel and biogas generation, wastewater and heavy metal removal, microplastic elimination, and the production of biofertilizers and biopesticides. Researchers are also exploring its potential in creating supercapacitors and electrodes, as well as in dye adsorption and degradation. This approach offers a way to transform harmful waste into valuable resources, achieving environmental benefits.

The authors note that biochar-modified concrete can absorb 247.1 kg/m3 of CO2. Biochar applications, from roads to building materials, show promise in capturing vehicle emissions and indoor air pollutants. Further research is needed to optimize biochar production from mixed waste sources and explore its long-term effectiveness.

This review underscores the substantial progress in utilizing waste materials to produce biochar and its contribution to CO2 sequestration, offering a sustainable approach to waste management and environmental protection.

SOURCE: Anandapadmanaban, B. H., Chan, Y. S., Lin, C.-W., & Liu, S.-H. (2025). Optimizing the generated waste proportion to improve the characteristics of biochar for CO2 sequestration and other applications. Environment, Development and Sustainability.