As the biomass industry continues to evolve, so do the pathways, markets and standards shaping its future. In this issue of Biomass Magazine, we examine how renewable carbon is being defined, deployed and scaled—from pyrogenic biocarbon standards and orchard waste solutions to the accelerating role of renewable natural gas in transportation. Collectively, the feature articles we’ve delivered underscore a central theme: biomass is moving away from a niche solution, emerging as a critical tool in the broader energy and carbon-management transition.In “Developing Pyrogenic Biocarbon Standards” on page 20, Associate Editor Katie Schroeder explores the growing urgency around clear definitions and standardized testing for biochar, biocarbon and biocoal as these materials move from pilot projects to commercial markets. Through insights from Myles Gray of the U.S. Biochar Initiative and Chris Wiberg of Timber Products Inspection/Biomass Energy Lab, the article explains how standards are essential for investor confidence, global trade and safe handling—particularly as industrial demand for low-carbon materials accelerates. As interest from sectors like steelmaking and construction grows, this feature highlights why consistent terminology and ISO-aligned frameworks are foundational to the next phase of biocarbon growth. And hopefully, it serves as a resource in regard to the commonalities and differences among pyrogenic biocarbon, which is the broad term encompassing these materials.Our biochar coverage continues with “From Burn Piles to Biochar” on page 14, by contributing writer Keith Loria, which takes a deep dive into California’s San Joaquin Valley as it completes the final phase of its agricultural burn ban. With open burning no longer an option, growers are navigating higher costs, limited infrastructure and mounting volumes of ag residue. Loria examines how localized biochar and biomass solutions—such as the Sitos Group and Treehouse California Almonds pyrolysis project—could offer a viable alternative, while also outlining the regulatory, economic and logistical hurdles that still stand in the way of large-scale adoption. It’s a timely look at how policy, agriculture and bioenergy intersect on the ground.&nbsp;Rounding out our feature article lineup is “Fueling the Future” on page 26, by contributing writer Caitlin Scheresky. The story profiles OPAL Fuels and the rapid expansion of renewable natural gas as a transportation fuel, tracing OPAL’s evolution from landfill gas-to-power roots to a vertically integrated RNG producer serving heavy-duty trucking fleets across North America. Against a backdrop of shifting policy incentives, depressed D3 RIN prices and growing international interest, the article illustrates why methane abatement and RNG infrastructure are increasingly viewed as some of the most practical and impactful near-term decarbonization tools—especially for hard-to-electrify sectors. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Together, these feature stories reflect an industry at an inflection point—one where definitions matter, local solutions are critical and scalable projects are beginning to reshape how biomass contributes to a lower-carbon future. Also complimentary to this theme are our contribution articles, which focus on sustainable aviation fuel’s potential, feedstock dynamics in the wake of SAF and maritime mandates, and lessons learned in material handling design and execution.&nbsp;2025 was ripe with challenges, but we’ve also seen many successes and have been fortunate to help tell these stories. As we move into the year ahead, we wish everyone across the biomass value chain a year defined by progress, resilience and success. From project development and policy clarity to market growth and deployment, Biomass Magazine looks forward to telling the stories that shape the industry’s future.Author: Anna Simet&nbsp;&nbsp; Director of Content &amp; Senior Editor&nbsp;&nbsp; asimet@bbiinternational.com&nbsp;

2026-01-06 - From Niche to Necessary (Biomass Magazine)

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In this issue of Biomass Magazine, we examine how renewable carbon is being defined, deployed and scaled—from pyrogenic biocarbon standards and orchard waste solutions to the accelerating role of renewable natural gas in transportation. 

From Niche to Necessary

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