Sustainable Biochar Production and Application at UCCS Farm

Project Coordinator: Andrew Erickson, Feyza Kazanc Ozerinc 

Project Sponsor: Feyza Kazanc Ozerinc, Assistant Professor

Responsible Department: Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Total GAF Funding: $16,500.00

Themes: Research, Waste Reduction, Soil Health

Goal: Support UCCS sustainability through waste reduction and circular economy practices by building a continuous pyrolysis system to convert UCCS biomass waste into biochar. 

Estimated Impact: Biochar output: ~1 lb/hr. Waste diverted: >100 kg/year.​ CO₂ sequestered: measurable kg CO₂-eq.​ Soil & plant improvements: pH, nutrients, water retention, yield.​ Educational impact: >5 students involved; presentations at Sustainability Summit.