Catching Carbon – Transforming Ontario’s Underutilized Biomass

Project Start Date: 28/03/2024

Project End Date: 30/06/2025

CRIBE Funding: $100,000

Project Total Value: $242,000

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This project will explore the transformation of underutilized forest biomass through pyrolysis to biochar and pyroligneous acid for use primarily in the agriculture sector. Additionally, this project will investigate the opportunities of bioproducts (bio-oil, syngas) for conversion and their potential use through a Combined Heat and Power (CHP) system.  

This project supports the first conversion of underutilized forest biomass for to soil amendment (biochar) in Ontario, and targets the agriculture sector specifically, opening new doors for growth in the forest biomass sector. The primary outputs will provide the local agriculture market with sustainable solutions that will increase soil health, supporting overall crop production and reduction of CO2 emissions. 

Milestone 1 Update

The project has successfully achieved its first major milestone: the design and development phase of the pyrolysis plant has been completed. The detailed plans have been finalized and approved, showcasing our team’s dedication and expertise. This achievement marks a significant step forward, allowing us to transition into the manufacturing and construction phase. The upcoming efforts will focus on fabricating the plant components and initiating on-site construction, setting the stage for the next phase of this pioneering initiative in sustainable agriculture.

A news update on the project from March 2025 is also linked here.