The Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), through the International Virtual Institute of Global Change (IVIG/COPPE), has inaugurated the Applied Research Laboratory in Waste 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 Decarbonization. Located at the University City in Brazil, this new facility houses one of South America’s largest pyrolysis reactors alongside a national decarbonization plant. Funded by the Rio de Janeiro State Research Support Foundation (Faperj), the initiative is designed to process urban waste and carbon dioxide, converting them into valuable energy resources, agricultural inputs, and industrial materials.

The region faces significant environmental pressure from approximately 200,000 tons of daily waste, creating risks for nearby communities and contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, the local industry relies heavily on imported raw materials for sectors such as glass and paper production. The absence of effective recycling solutions for certain 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 and plastics has historically perpetuated a linear “take-make-dispose” economy that fails to capture the residual value of these materials.

To mitigate these issues, the new laboratory employs a dual-process solution involving pyrolysis and decarbonization. The pyrolysis unit treats biomass and non-recyclable plastics, thermally converting them into fuel oil, reusable gases, and 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. This biochar serves a dual purpose as an effective soil fertilizer and a mechanism for carbon sequestration. Simultaneously, the decarbonization unit captures and transforms carbon dioxide into sodium carbonate (soda ashAsh is the non-combustible inorganic residue that remains after organic matter, like wood or biomass, is completely burned. It consists mainly of minerals and is different from biochar, which is produced through incomplete combustion.   Ash Ash is the residue that remains after the complete More), a critical input for the glass, paper, and cellulose industries. This technological approach effectively closes the loop on waste, turning liabilities into assets.

The anticipated outcomes of this project are substantial, with the potential to reduce the volume of waste sent to landfills by up to 90%. By producing biochar and sodium carbonate locally, the initiative fosters a circular economy that reduces import dependency and aligns with Brazil’s carbon neutrality goals following COP 30.