Biochar Opening Day with the Sonoma Ecology Center, CA

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ARTi is proud to have provided the advanced pyrolysis reactor for the newly launched biochar production site at the Napa Recycling & Compost Facility

 

ARTi is proud to have provided the advanced pyrolysis reactor for the newly launched biochar production site at the Napa Recycling & Compost Facility, a milestone project led by Sonoma Ecology Center and key partners. This state-of-the-art installation marks a significant step forward for sustainable land management and climate resilience in California, transforming local organic waste into high-quality biochar. 

We congratulate Sonoma Ecology Center, A Plus Tree, Napa Recycling & Waste Services, and all collaborators for making local, commercial-scale biochar production a reality, and we are excited to support the region’s journey toward healthier soils and a more sustainable future. 

The ARTi reactor gets its first feedstock. 

 

Ribbon cut and ready for operation. 

 

After years of dedicated effort, the biochar facility in American Canyon officially began operations in March 2025, thanks to the vision and collaboration of Sonoma Ecology Center, Napa Recycling & Waste Services, A Plus Tree, and ARTi. This achievement was made possible through CAL FIRE funding from California’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, and it stands as a testament to the perseverance and teamwork of everyone involved. The project overcame a series of challenges including navigating the COVID-19 pandemic, addressing complex municipal and permitting requirements, and relocating operational sites, all of which demonstrated the resilience and commitment of the partners.

 

The completed pyrolysis reactor. 

 

The facility paves the way for the sale of locally produced biochar in the North Bay Area. To ensure the highest environmental standards, Best Environmental was engaged to conduct thorough air emissions testing, and the system continues to be optimized with advanced automation and careful feedstock preparation.

ARTi’s Juan Pedro Del Campo presents the new reactor.

 

In an exciting development, the biochar produced here will be blended with Napa Recycling’s premium compost, creating an enhanced soil amendment ideal for farms and gardens throughout the region.  We believe this project serves as a model for communities everywhere. By establishing small to medium-scale pyrolysis facilities, regions can transform surplus biomass into valuable biochar, supporting both climate goals and local agriculture.

 

Key partner Sonoma Ecology Center.

 

This Post Has One Comment

  1. Hal Beck

    Nice work!

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