We are delighted to share the news of the up-coming launch of Carbon Capture Cymru, a new organisation led by our long-time Welsh colleague Colin Keyse, who has been an invaluable partner in biochar projects such as RE-Direct and THREE C (and many more). This initiative aims to support and represent the growing community of biochar users and enthusiasts in Wales and the bordering counties of England.

Driven by a passion for sustainable carbon management in its many forms, Carbon Capture Cymru will provide a platform for knowledge sharing, collaboration and advocacy for biochar professionals, as well as a warm welcome and introduction to newcomers to the subject.

The vision is clear: to create a centre for biochar innovation that fosters collaboration across the UK and Europe. Despite the challenges of Brexit, the spirit of collaboration, especially at citizen and community level, remains strong and the hope is that Carbon Capture Cymru will become part of the THREE C European network and continue the shared mission of advancing sustainable biochar solutions.

As the organisation takes its first steps, we are proud to stand by our colleague in this new endeavour. Carbon Capture Cymru is a testament to the lasting relationships and high level collaboration that has been built over the years and we are confident that this initiative will contribute to the future of sustainable carbon management in the region.

We look forward to supporting the launch and learning more about this exciting new chapter in the biochar community. Stay tuned for further updates, including the launch of the website and new opportunities to get involved.

On 29 September 2024, the CASCADE project will take part in the ‘Technik zum Anfassen’ event in Witzenhausen, North Hesse, Germany, from 11:00 to 17:00. Organized in collaboration with the University of Kassel and blinc, this hands-on event will provide an opportunity for visitors to explore biochar technology and the circular carbon economy.

In a recent interview, Dr. Korbinian Kätzl, an environmental engineer and expert in urban water management, outlined his vision for transforming waste materials from grasslands into high-quality biogenic activated carbon. His goal is to integrate this innovative material into water management systems, enhancing sustainability and efficiency.

Pioneering Circular Bioeconomy Solutions

Dr. Kätzl leads research at the Department of Grassland Science and Renewable Resources and the Competence Center for Climate Protection and Climate Adaptation (CliMA) at the University of Kassel. Through the Bio4Act research group, funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), he is exploring ways to produce biogenic activated carbons and platform chemicals from residual biomass. This work supports the development of circular bioeconomy models that contribute to more sustainable water management practices.

We are excited to announce an upcoming webinar hosted by Biochar Zero, a CASCADE network partner, focusing on how biochar can boost gas yields in biogas production. This session will provide valuable insights into sustainable energy solutions and the innovative applications of biochar in anaerobic digestion (AD) plants.

The latest issue of Neomag Magazine (#62) features an innovative pilot project that explores the integration of biochar in asphalt. This initiative highlights the potential of biochar to contribute to more sustainable road construction, reducing environmental impact while enhancing material performance.

On April 2, 2024, Sander Lubberhuizen, Innovation Manager of the Municipality of Enschede, presented the CASCADE project at a meeting organized by the Expertise Centre Europe of the Province of Overijssel. The event was part of the ‘Leergang Europa’ (Europe Course), aimed at informing regional municipalities about European funding opportunities.

The session brought together municipal representatives from the region, providing them with insights into how European projects support local innovation and sustainability initiatives. The CASCADE project was highlighted as a practical example of municipal collaboration, showcasing how shared expertise and cross-border cooperation can contribute to sustainable carbon management and circular economy goals.

As part of the CASCADE project, the Council for the Development of the Circular Economy (CDEC) recently visited one of Luxembourg’s leading public works companies, known for its expertise in asphalt production and application across roads, cycle paths, footpaths, and airport runways.

At its state-of-the-art production site, the company develops high-recycled-content asphalt, coloured asphalt mixes, and low-temperature formulations. With its dedicated laboratory and R&D department, the company is committed to advancing innovation and exploring new solutions for more sustainable infrastructure.

As part of the CASCADE project, the Centre for the Development of the Circular Economy (CDEC) recently visited Soil Concept, a key player in biomass valorization and composting in Luxembourg. Located in Diekirch, Soil Concept serves as a hub for green waste collection and processing, supporting sustainable resource management.

Green Waste Processing at Soil Concept

The facility specializes in handling and transforming three main types of organic waste:

• Sewage sludge – Residues from urban wastewater treatment.
• Vegetable waste – Garden and biodegradable park waste.
• Root and wood waste – Forestry waste, roots, and bark

Innovation within municipalities is often perceived as a slow-moving process, but in the Dutch city of Enschede, S. Lubberhuizen is proving otherwise. As a key innovator in the region, he not only develops ideas but also actively translates them into practical solutions.

One such initiative is ECOFALT, an asphalt alternative that is manufactured completely cold and primarily from recycled materials. With the integration of biochar, produced from biowaste, the material has the potential to become CO2 neutral.

As part of the CASCADE project, the Centre for the Development of the Circular Economy (CDEC) recently had the opportunity to visit Soil Concept, a key player in biomass valorisation and composting in Luxembourg. Based in Diekirch, in northern Luxembourg, Soil Concept serves as an important hub for the collection and processing of green waste.

The company focuses on managing three main types of organic waste:

• Sewage sludge: Residues from urban wastewater treatment.
• Vegetable waste: Garden and biodegradable park waste.
• Root and wood waste: Forestry waste, roots, and bark.