In a comprehensive review published in RSC Advances, authors Esraa M. El-Fawal and colleagues highlight the potential of biomass-derived residuals as a key renewable energy source. The review provides a detailed analysis of various 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 conversion technologies and the emerging applications of engineered 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,derived from biomass, focusing on its role in pollution reduction, carbon sequestration, and catalytic processes.  

Biomass, derived from waste materials, presents a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels, addressing climate change and waste management challenges. Although it has a lower calorific value than fossil fuels, advanced conversion technologies like torrefaction, 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, and gasificationGasification is a high-temperature, thermochemical process that converts carbon-based materials into a gaseous fuel called syngas and solid by-products. It takes place in an oxygen-deficient environment at temperatures typically above 750°C. Unlike combustion, which fully burns material to produce heat and carbon dioxide (CO2​), gasification More can enhance its energy recovery potential. These methods not only improve energy output but also support a balanced carbon cycle, as the carbon dioxide released during combustion is reabsorbed by plants, making biomass a carbon-neutral energy source.  

The review emphasizes biochar’s versatility, highlighting its potential in pollution mitigation, carbon sequestration, and as a catalyst in industrial applications. Various biomass sources, including agricultural, industrial, and municipal solid residuals, can be converted into biochar through pyrolysis, yielding valuable by-products like bio-oil and combustible gases. The resulting bio-oil can be further processed into green diesel and gasoline-like fuels, offering a cleaner alternative to conventional fossil fuels.  

The economic and ecological benefits of biomass-derived energy, such as reduced greenhouse gas emissions and waste reutilization, are significant advantages over fossil fuels. However, challenges such as technology costs, process efficiency, and market dynamics need to be addressed to scale up biomass energy production.  

This review serves as a valuable resource for researchers and policymakers, offering guidance for advancing biomass utilization and transitioning toward sustainable energy systems.  

SOURCE: El-Fawal, E. M., El Naggar, A. M. A., El-Zahhar, A. A., Alghandi, M. M., Morshedy, A. S., Mohammed, A. E., & El Sayed, H. A. (2025). Biofuel production from waste residuals: Comprehensive insights into biomass conversion technologies and engineered biochar applications. RSC Advances, 15(12), 11942-11974.