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Position Paper

Decarbonizing the Cement Industry with Biochar 

Did you know that cement production accounts for 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions? As the construction industry continues to grow, finding innovative ways to reduce emissions and remove carbon from the atmosphere is critical. One promising solution is incorporating biochar into concrete.

In response to the growing need for more sustainable construction practices, a new position paper by the Biochar Europe’s Materials Working Group explores the potential of biochar in concrete as a long-term solution for carbon removal.

Biochar not only reduces the need for traditional cement but also locks in carbon for thousands of years. A recent study led by Prof. Hamed Sanei at Aarhus University has shown that biochar produced at high temperatures(above 550°C) is highly stable, with properties similar to inertinite, the most stable form of organic carbon form found in Earth’s crust. This makes biochar an ideal candidate for permanent carbon storage.

The position paper also discusses the end-of-life scenarios of biochar-concrete products. In typical recycling or downcycling processes, biochar remains secure within the concrete matrix, ensuring that carbon storage continues for many years. Jaw crushers and impact crushers, commonly used in recycling, do not expose biochar to temperatures that would cause carbon reversal. This makes biochar a safe and durable method for integrating carbon removal into construction materials.

This paper offers a detailed exploration of biochar’s potential, from technical considerations to its role in decarbonising the construction industry. By adopting biochar in concrete, producers can reduce emissions while providing a reliable method of long-term carbon storage. 

Dive into the full position paper!

Explore how biochar is transforming both carbon removal and construction practices.

Download HERE