Airex Energy, an innovative leader in the development of world-class decarbonization solutions, Groupe Rémabec, a cornerstone of Quebec's forest industry committed to responsible transformation and decarbonization, and SUEZ, a global leader in circular solutions for water and waste, are inaugurating Carbonity on May 22—the first industrial-scale biochar plant in Canada, located in Port-Cartier.Born from a partnership between the three companies, the plant begins with an annual production capacity of 10,000 metric tons of biochar, which is expected to triple by 2026, making it the largest facility of its kind in North America—and one of the most important globally. Biochar is recognized by the IPCC as one of the most effective technologies to combat climate change due to its long-term carbon sequestration capacity. In addition, its many benefits enhance agricultural resilience, drive sustainable innovation in construction and urban development, and support the decarbonization of heavy industries.Biochar: A Decarbonization Tool for Multiple IndustriesBiochar is produced through pyrolysis—a process of carbonizing residual biomass at high temperatures without oxygen.When used as a soil amendment, biochar enhances nutrient and water retention, aeration, drainage, and microbial activity. It regenerates soil, increases fertilizer efficiency, improves crop yields, and aids water drainage—key advantages for the agriculture sector. It can also be added to livestock feed to promote animal health and reduce methane emissions.When integrated into concrete, cement, or asphalt, biochar enhances material performance while significantly lowering their carbon footprint—addressing a major challenge in sustainable construction and urban development. Its production also yields surplus energy in the form of steam or pyrolytic oil, which can be used as fuel.Cities are increasingly using biochar to process organic waste and combat flooding. Its absorbent qualities make it ideal for creating "sponge parks." It also supports the remediation of contaminated soils.An Innovative Facility Driven by Three Pioneers of the TransitionCarbonity, located in Northern Québec, is an equally held joint venture between the three partner organizations. It will create 75 direct and indirect jobs in the region and produce carbon-rich biochar from approximately 58,000 tonnes of forestry residues annually, sourced from Groupe Rémabec’s operations. Carbonity is powered by Airex Energy’s proprietary technology. Its proprietary and patented DryFX™ and CarbonFX™ technologies are at the heart of the plant’s innovative process. SUEZ brings key expertise in organic waste recovery, the production of amendments and biofertilizers, and the development of circular solutions to help clients reduce their carbon footprint.This project marks the first step in Airex Energy and SUEZ’s ambitious roadmap to build a global annual production capacity of 350,000 tonnes of biochar by 2035 to meet the decarbonization challenges of industrial operations.“The inauguration of Carbonity is a true industrial milestone for Québec. Airex Energy’s technology, including our patented CarbonFX and DryFX solutions, is central to this success, and it makes us very proud. Our primary mission is to contribute to the decarbonization of our economy. This investment represents Airex Energy’s first step toward scaling global biochar production, a product that will help many businesses here and abroad achieve net zero.”&nbsp;— Michel Gagnon, CEO of Airex Energy and Chair of Carbonity's Board.“Today, we continue an extraordinary journey that is shaping the future of forestry and asserting Quebec’s leadership in bioproduct development. Alongside Airex Energy and SUEZ, we are building a new economy—future-focused and environmentally committed. At Port-Cartier, we’re betting on innovation and boldness to convert our forest residues into sustainable economic value. This project breathes new life into a long-neglected industrial site, giving it a promising future. Thanks to strong partnerships, cutting-edge technology, and a clear vision, we are positioning ourselves as a global player while diversifying our products and markets for a better future.”&nbsp;— Réjean Paré, President and Chief Operating Officer, Groupe Rémabec.“We are delighted to contribute to this pioneering biochar production project in Canada. Identified by the IPCC as a negative-emissions solution, biochar is effective in fighting climate change and aligns with SUEZ’s waste recovery activities. We believe biochar will play a key role in the ecological transition of industry. That’s why we aim, alongside Airex Energy, to produce 350,000 tonnes of biochar annually by 2035, providing our customers committed to carbon neutrality with innovative solutions to reduce their residual emissions.”&nbsp;— Yves Rannou, Interim Co-CEO, SUEZ, and Head of Recycling.“The inauguration of Carbonity marks a pivotal step toward a new, more sustainable forestry model rooted in today’s economic and environmental realities, and serving the ecological and industrial transition of tomorrow. Taking part in this Canadian first is a tremendous source of pride.”&nbsp;— Patrick Girard, General Manager, Carbonity.This project was made possible thanks to the vision and financial support of the governments of Quebec and Canada.“The federal government is proud to have contributed to this flagship project supporting the establishment of a new subsidiary in Canada. Biochar is a key solution for carbon sequestration, with additional benefits for agriculture, the development of resilient cities, and the support of a diversified forestry industry.”&nbsp;— Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister of Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions.“I’m thrilled to see the Carbonity project come to life. The new automated plant will generate significant economic and social benefits in Côte-Nord, including the creation of highly specialized jobs. It also strengthens the region’s forestry sector, which plays a key role in our economy.”&nbsp;— Kateri Champagne Jourdain, Minister of Employment, Minister Responsible for the Côte-Nord region, and Member for Duplessis.“Carbonity is helping accelerate decarbonization in key sectors across Quebec. Our government is proud to have invested more than $16 million in this project, which leverages innovative technology and contributes to building a prosperous, sustainable economy.”&nbsp;— Christine Fréchette, Minister of Economy, Innovation and Energy, and Minister responsible for Regional Economic Development.“With Carbonity, Port-Cartier becomes a leader in sustainable innovation. By transforming our forest residues into biochar, we are smartly harnessing local resources while creating lasting jobs. This is a flagship project that proves environmental protection and economic development can go hand in hand. It’s a great source of pride to see our community become a model of responsible development.”&nbsp;— Alain Thibault, Mayor of Port-Cartier.At full capacity, the plant will sequester 75,000 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent per year. This output will generate certified and guaranteed carbon credits, marketed on the voluntary market by First Climate. In 2024, Microsoft selected Carbonity to purchase 36,000 carbon credits over the first three years of operations.“The official launch of Carbonity is an important step in international climate protection through technical carbon removal solutions, demonstrating that biochar technology can scale. We are thrilled by the strong interest our clients have shown in Carbonity, supporting the continued development of carbon removal technology.”&nbsp;— Olaf Bachert, CEO, First Climate.

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Airex Energy, Groupe Rémabec, and SUEZ, on May 22 celebrated the inauguration of Carbonity on the first industrial-scale biochar plant in Canada. The facility currently has an annual production capacity of 10,000 metric tons. 

Airex Energy celebrates inauguration of Canadian biochar plant

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