Introduction
As Canada continues to advance its carbon dioxide removal (CDR) initiatives, the integration of scalable and sustainable technologies remains a critical priority. While industrial carbon capture and direct air capture projects have gained momentum, biochar—produced through the pyrolysis of biomass—has emerged as an innovative and dual-purpose solution. Not only does biochar facilitate long-term carbon sequestration, but it also plays an increasingly valuable role in environmental remediation.
One of the most promising applications of biochar is its use in wastewater treatment and landfill filtration leachate management. Given the growing concerns over nutrient runoff, heavy metal contamination, and persistent organic pollutants such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), biochar is demonstrating remarkable potential as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly filtration medium.
This article explores biochar’s role in removing contaminants from wastewater and landfill leachate, its potential to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions across industrial sectors, and its contributions to circular economy models in Canada.