Biochar production from olive tree prunings by using open flame pyrolysis
International Journal of Energy Sector Management
ISSN: 1750-6220
Article publication date: 6 January 2025
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the potential of open-flame pyrolysis kilns as an efficient and sustainable solution for managing olive tree prunings in Mediterranean regions. By converting agricultural residues into biochar, this method aims to reduce biomass waste, mitigate CO2 emissions, and enhance soil quality. The research seeks to highlight the environmental, economic and agricultural benefits of this approach, promoting its integration into local farming practices as part of a circular economy strategy and a broader effort toward climate change mitigation and sustainable development.
Design/methodology/approach
This study explores the use of open-flame pyrolysis kilns for converting olive tree prunings into biochar. Portable kilns were utilized to carbonize biomass residues in a controlled manner, offering an affordable and efficient solution with minimal technical requirements. The process was evaluated for carbon capture efficiency, biochar quality and emissions reduction. A life-cycle assessment was conducted to estimate potential environmental impacts, with a focus on CO2 mitigation. Field trials assessed the feasibility of integrating this method into local agricultural practices, emphasizing its role in sustainable waste management, soil improvement and greenhouse gas emissions reduction.
Findings
This study demonstrates that open-flame pyrolysis kilns are an effective and low-cost method for converting olive tree prunings into high-quality biochar. The process achieved high carbon capture efficiency with minimal emissions, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional biomass disposal practices. Biochar produced improved soil properties, supporting nutrient retention and microbial activity. In addition, the method significantly reduced CO2 emissions compared to burning prunings in fields. These findings highlight the environmental and agricultural benefits of biochar production, emphasizing its potential for waste management, climate change mitigation and enhancing soil health in Mediterranean farming systems.
Originality/value
This study introduces open-flame pyrolysis kilns as a novel, practical solution for managing olive tree prunings in Mediterranean regions, addressing both environmental and agricultural challenges. It highlights the dual benefits of reducing CO2 emissions and producing biochar to enhance soil quality. The research provides an accessible, low-cost alternative for small-scale farmers, integrating sustainable waste management with climate change mitigation. By emphasizing the use of portable kilns and minimal technical requirements, this study offers valuable insights into promoting biochar production as part of circular economy practices, filling a critical gap in sustainable agriculture and renewable energy strategies.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
Funding: This research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.
Ethical approval: Not applicable as no animal or human subjects were involved.
Competing interests: There is no competing interest of personal or financial nature to disclose.
Authors’ contributions: Conceptualization, E.T. and F.A.C.; methodology, A.M. and F.A.C.; software, S.T.; validation, V.G.P. and F.A.C.; formal analysis, A.M., E.T. and V.G.P.; investigation, A.M.; data curation, S.T.; writing – original draft preparation, E.T., V.G.P. and F.A.C.; writing – review and editing, E.T. and F.A.C.; visualization, E.T. and F.A.C.; supervision, V.G.P. and F.A.C.; project administration, E.T.. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.
Availability of data and materials: No datasets were generated or analysed during the current study.
Citation
Ainatzoglou, M., Tsiaras, E., Papadakis, V.G., Tampekis, S. and Coutelieris, F.A. (2025), "Biochar production from olive tree prunings by using open flame pyrolysis", International Journal of Energy Sector Management, Vol. ahead-of-print No. ahead-of-print. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJESM-10-2024-0057
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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