Tunisian Project "Acquasol-Biochar" Converts Agricultural Waste into Natural Pollution Filter

Amidst growing concerns over water resource degradation, a Tunisian initiative named "Acquasol-Biochar" is developing a sustainable solution for treating polluted waters in the country. Presented recently at the National Agronomic Institute of Tunisia (INAT), the project focuses on creating a low-cost solar pyrolysis oven to locally produce biochar from agricultural waste and residual biomass.

Led by Fathi Lachaal, a doctor in hydrogeology and geophysics and a lecturer at the Water Research and Technologies Center (CERTE), the project integrates principles of the circular economy, renewable energy, and agricultural waste valorization. The primary goal is to minimize the process's carbon footprint while effectively utilizing organic waste. The resulting biochar is intended for use as an absorbent material in water purification systems, reactive barriers, and other water treatment devices.

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The objective is to reduce the carbon footprint of the process while valorizing organic waste.

Developed in partnership with the Research Institute for Development (IRD), the French Institute of Tunisia, the Institute of Agricultural Research and Higher Education (IRESA), and INAT, the project aims to demonstrate the viability of an integrated chain. This chain connects the valorization of agricultural waste to water treatment, involving agricultural and industrial stakeholders, particularly in the Cap Bon and Kairouan regions.

Project proponents believe this technology could serve as a reproducible model for rural areas and regions experiencing significant water stress, providing a localized and sustainable response to water management challenges. Tunisia has a relatively developed sanitation system, but less than 10% of treated water is reused, despite structural water stress.

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This technology could constitute a reproducible model for rural areas and regions facing severe water stress, by offering a local and sustainable response to water management challenges.