| Abstract [eng] |
This thesis evaluates the production of biochar from natural fiber textile waste (textile biochar – TB) as a strategy for climate change mitigation and sustainable textile waste management. To assess the feasibility and potential environmental benefits of this strategy, a TB production experiment was conducted, and a life cycle assessment (LCA) was applied in accordance with ISO 14040, ISO 14044 and EN 15804 standards. The LCA was carried out using the “Ecochain Helix” software, and the carbon sequestration potential of the biochar was estimated based on the “Puro.earth” methodology. Three scenarios were compared in the study: (1) a baseline scenario in which the natural fiber textile product is incinerated for energy recovery at the end of its life cycle; (2) an innovative scenario where the same product is converted into biochar; and (3) a business-as-usual scenario involving conventional raw materials, production conditions, and waste management practices. The results showed that the second biochar scenario had the lowest climate change impact. Moreover, by replacing incineration with biochar conversion, the end-of-life stage shifted from having a negative to a positive environmental impact. The produced biochar was found to meet the requirements of the European Biochar Certificate (EBC) and can be used as a soil amendment and long-term carbon sink. Before being applied to soil, it can also serve as a component in various industrial products, and companies producing biochar may participate in the carbon credit market. This study demonstrates that recycling natural fiber textile waste into biochar can not only significantly contribute to more sustainable textile waste management, but also help achieve broader goals related to ecosystem restoration, the circular economy and climate change mitigation. |
