Chapter 13 - Sustainable production and applications of biochar in circular bioeconomy

Abstract

The concept of “circular bioeconomy” has garnered more scholarly attention with emphasis on the economy, environment, and resources. In this chapter, the role of biochar in improving circular bioeconomy is discussed. Biochar produced from biowastes is an effective method for helping solve the environmental pollution caused by these wastes. Meanwhile, valuable products such as biochar, bio-oil, and gases can be recovered through pyrolysis technologies, which bring both economic and environmental benefits. Biochars can have different characteristics based on their original feedstocks and pyrolysis conditions. Further application of biochar in the water and soil environment is a promising method to increase the efficiency of the circular bioeconomy. Specifically, biochar containing specific properties can help with the recovery of water and nutrient resources from aqueous environments. For example, biochar application in soils can improve the soil quality and crop yield via the effects of biochar on soil water-holding capacity, nutrients recycling, and microbial communities in soils. Contaminated soils can be purified of toxic substances after the application of biochar, and this leads to less toxic outcomes for the environment and human health. Additionally, the application of biochar in soils also plays an important role in climate change mitigation via carbon sequestration and curtailing greenhouse gas emissions. In short, biochar technology can bring several advantages to the circular bioeconomy.