Towards gene editing and torrefaction pretreatment for biochar functionalization

The global demand for sustainable materials and carbon-neutral technologies drives innovations in biochar, a carbon-rich material for energy storage, pollution mitigation, and carbon sequestration. Conventional biochar, limited by poor conductivity and porosity, relies on fossil fuel-dependent activation. Recent advances in gene-editing technologies enable the precise reduction of lignin and enhance cellulose in woody biomass, improving its processability for biochar production. Furthermore, coupled with two-stage torrefaction-pyrolysis technology, biochar achieves tailored functionality - greater porosity and conductivity. This synergy between biotechnology and thermochemical engineering enables the transition of lab-scale breakthroughs to industrial applications, despite challenges to scaling, regulation, and public acceptance. This opinion highlights how merging genetic precision with green engineering can create high-value materials and advance circular bioeconomy and global decarbonization.