Biochar supply‐chain and challenges to commercialization

Abstract

Produced through pyrolysis, biochars are used as a soil amendment. Differences in feedstock and processing result in differentiated products which impact their values in different soil conditions. Despite the enormous potential, biochars have not been widely used. This paper overviews the benefits and potential demand for biochar and features of supply chain, and identifies opportunities for viable introduction of biochars. The value of biochars should be evaluated as a part of the pyrolysis system that coproduces biochars and biofuels. Biochars can improve agricultural productivity and soil functioning and contribute to climate change mitigation through carbon sequestration. Furthermore, it can provide extra benefit by contributing to fire prevention. The cost of biochar system depends on the costs of feedstock acquisition, transportation, and processing. Biochar is most likely to be adopted in locations with marginal land and high‐value crop, and near low‐cost feedstock sources. The adoption of biochar can be enhanced by compensation for carbon sequestration, further investment in research, and learning of producers to enhance efficiency of the supply chain.

Medium-Term Effects and Economic Analysis of Biochar Application in Three Mediterranean Crops

“…Differences in the characteristics and methods of transformation of the raw material used to prepare biochar result in a highly variable price range of up to EUR 1000 per ton of biochar [58]. However, some studies indicate average prices between EUR 200 and EUR 600/t, depending on the country and labor costs, among other factors [59].…”

Biochar‐based catalysts derived from biomass waste: production, characterization, and application for liquid biofuel synthesis

“…The techno-economic study of biochar is thus essential in understanding the profitability along with the viability of large-scale deployment. 200 Furthermore, secondary harmful chemical contaminants related to waste-derived biochar synthesis must be controlled by selecting suitable 174 feedstock for specific uses. Like other new sectors, biochar commercialization is being hampered due to the high risks involved when joining this industry.…”

“…It is critical to understand the efficacy of the technology as well as the economic input needed for generating biochar. The techno‐economic study of biochar is thus essential in understanding the profitability along with the viability of large‐scale deployment 200 . Furthermore, secondary harmful chemical contaminants related to waste‐derived biochar synthesis must be controlled by selecting suitable feedstock for specific uses.…”

Systemic review for the use of biochar to mitigate soil degradation

“…Zilberman et al. (2023) suggested that biochar should be applied to marginal land that is producing high‐value crops, where the availability of low‐cost feedstock is nearby, and that carbon sequestration subsidies should be provided. The cost of biochar is mainly the source of raw material acquisition and labor.…”

“…Shackley et al (2011) argued that the price of biochar would have to be reduced by approximately 90% of its current market price to make biochar profitable. Zilberman et al (2023) suggested that biochar should be applied to marginal land that is producing highvalue crops, where the availability of low-cost feedstock is nearby, and that carbon sequestration subsidies should be provided. The cost of biochar is mainly the source of raw material acquisition and labor.…”