Who knew that relaxing with a drink could help save the planet? Holcim, a global building materials producer, proposes just that using biochar – converted from agave waste from producing tequila. Agave waste, or really any sort of plant or wood organic waste, is converted to biochar through a pyrolysis process using heat but without oxygen. The gases released can be collected and burned to fuel the process, making it essentially self-sufficient without needing supplemental fuel.
The biochar is then added to concrete mix as part of the aggregate, locking up carbon. The Holcim results suggest up to 3 kg of CO2 savings for every kg of biochar added, but this depends on the source. In addition to agave, other organic feedstocks could be used – coffee grounds, waste wood, or avocados. The potential global savings are likely small, due to the limited amount of waste, but it’s a meaningful step. So next time you want to reduce your carbon footprint, just kick up your feet and have a drink! Steve Terry, DTC HVAC & Refrigeration Instructor
