Highlighting Irish bioeconomy innovation, regional development and the potential of biochar to support a sustainable, circular economy
The BIOCHAR project participated at the Global Bioeconomy Summit 2026 as part of the Government of Ireland’s presentation of seven Irish bioeconomy projects, highlighting Ireland’s commitment to research, innovation and the development of sustainable, bio-based solutions.
The Summit brought together researchers, policymakers, industry representatives and other stakeholders from around the world to exchange knowledge, explore emerging technologies and identify opportunities to advance a more sustainable and resource-efficient economy.
At the exhibition stand, the BIOCHAR project presented its objectives, activities and potential applications in soil health, sustainable water treatment solutions, carbon management, peat-free horticulture, incorporated into asphalt and road materials and emissions reduction.
The Government of Ireland’s exhibition stand was visited by government officials, including Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Martin Heydon TD, who had the opportunity to learn about the BIOCHAR project, alongside six other Irish bioeconomy projects.
The project is particularly relevant to Ireland’s Just Transition Region in the Midlands, where the move away from peat production and peat-fired electricity generation has created a need for new economic opportunities and sustainable industries. By exploring the potential of biochar and the value-added use of biomass resources, BIOCHAR can contribute to the development of circular bioeconomy opportunities, support regional innovation and help build more sustainable local value chains. This work aligns with the wider ambition of a just transition: supporting communities as they move towards a low-carbon economy while creating opportunities for regional development and economic diversification.
Speaking about the project’s participation, Prof. JJ Leahy, Project Lead for the BIOCHAR project, said:
“The Global Bioeconomy Summit 2026 provided an excellent opportunity to present the BIOCHAR project as part of Ireland’s wider bioeconomy innovation efforts. We were delighted to welcome Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Minister Martin Heydon to the Government of Ireland exhibition stand and to highlight the potential of biochar to support more sustainable biomass utilisation and circular resource systems. The Summit enabled us to share our work with international stakeholders, exchange knowledge and explore opportunities for collaboration to help translate biochar research into real-world practical applications.”
The project’s participation highlighted the importance of collaboration between research, industry, policymakers and local communities in translating scientific advances into practical solutions. Alongside the other six Irish projects, BIOCHAR demonstrated the potential of bio-based innovation to improve resource efficiency, support regional economic diversification and contribute to Ireland’s transition towards a circular, low-carbon economy.
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