In the arid landscapes of Irbid Governorate, Jordan, a groundbreaking study is paving the way for sustainable waste management and renewable energy solutions. Researchers, led by Shereen A. Abusmier from the Department of Land Management and Environment at The Hashemite University, have identified optimal locations for biochar production facilities using advanced Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA). This innovative approach not only addresses the pressing need for sustainable waste management but also holds significant promise for the energy sector.
Biochar, a charcoal-like substance produced from organic waste, offers a dual benefit: it enhances soil fertility and sequesters carbon, making it a valuable tool in the fight against climate change. The study, published in ‘Discover Sustainability’ (translated to English as ‘Exploring Sustainability’), focuses on plant-based agricultural waste, a abundant resource in the region. By analyzing 2022 Landsat-8 imagery, the team categorized land into five classes—built-up, rangeland, water, crops, and forests—with an impressive accuracy of 91%.
The researchers integrated key factors such as land use, proximity to biomass, transportation networks, slope, and hydrological features to create a suitability map. This map highlights areas with gentle slopes, accessible biomass, and minimal environmental impact. “Combining GIS and MCDA allows us to make informed decisions that balance economic, environmental, and social factors,” explains Abusmier. “This approach ensures that biochar facilities are not only efficient but also sustainable.”
The study identified 38 potential sites for biochar production, with biomass production concentrated in 8.2% of the governorate, primarily in the central and southern regions. These areas offer good accessibility and low environmental impact, making them ideal for biochar facilities. In contrast, northern areas were found to be less suitable due to topography, urban growth, and protected zones.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. By providing a scientific basis for locating biochar facilities, the study supports climate-resilient waste management and circular economy goals. “This research demonstrates the potential of spatial technologies to guide policy and expand eco-friendly solutions,” says Abusmier. “It’s a step towards a more sustainable future.”
For the energy sector, the identification of optimal sites for biochar production opens up new opportunities for renewable energy solutions. Biochar can be used as a soil amendment to improve agricultural productivity, but it also has potential as a sustainable fuel source. As the world shifts towards cleaner energy, the demand for biochar is expected to grow, making this research timely and relevant.
The study’s findings highlight the importance of integrating advanced technologies like GIS and MCDA in planning sustainable infrastructure. As Abusmier notes, “This approach ensures that we are not just reacting to problems but proactively addressing them with sustainable solutions.” By doing so, the research sets a precedent for future developments in the field, guiding policy and expanding eco-friendly solutions in arid regions and beyond.