Work

Hydrogen-Centred Process Framework for the Integrated Valorisation of Livestock and Fisheries Residues with Biochar-Based Soil Regeneration in Coastal Regions

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Coastal regions concentrate livestock and fisheries activities that generate large volumes of organic residues, often managed inadequately and contributing to nutrient loading, soil degradation, and marine pollution. At the same time, these territories face increasing pressure to decarbonise energy systems and restore degraded soils under climate change. This article proposes an integrated conceptual framework for the valorisation of livestock and fisheries residues through hydrogen-centred energy recovery and biochar-based soil regeneration, with a focus on coastal regions of Colombia. The framework integrates biological and thermochemical conversion pathways, including anaerobic digestion, fermentation, gasification, and pyrolysis, within a unified system boundary that treats organic residues as secondary resources rather than environmental liabilities. Hydrogen is a transitional energy carrier enabling near-term decarbonisation within decentralised residue valorisation systems, while biochar is positioned as a key co-product enabling long-term carbon stabilisation and soil regeneration. By linking material and energy flows at the territorial scale and accounting for governance constraints and environmental vulnerabilities, the framework highlights the potential of decentralised residue valorisation systems. These systems can reduce coastal pollution, enhance soil resilience, and contribute to climate mitigation in fragile ecosystems.

Source: Processes

DOI: 10.3390/pr14040693

Authors: Sara Piedrahita-Rodríguez, Laura Stefanía Corredor-Muñoz, Juan Carlos Colmenares-Quintero, Alberto Coz, Ramón Fernando Colmenares-Quintero

Institutions: Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia, Institute of Physical Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Universidad de Cantabria

Language: English

Topic: Anaerobic Digestion and Biogas Production

Subfield: Building and Construction

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Climate action, Affordable and clean energy, Life on land, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896