STARTUP LAUNCHES PILOT PROGRAM TO TEST CARBON REMOVAL TECHNOLOGY
July 27, 2023 Lira Mercer
A new startup based in Soledad has launched a pilot program to test its carbon removal technology. The startup, called Sitos Group, aims to convert wood waste and other organic byproducts into biochar, a carbon-rich soil supplement that can be used by farmers. The program was officially unveiled at ReGen Monterey on July 21.
The pyrolysis machine developed by Sitos Group takes wood chips, almond shells, and other byproducts and converts them into biochar through a process called slow pyrolysis. This process sequesters the carbon, preventing it from being emitted into the atmosphere. The biochar can then be mixed with compost and used to improve soil health.
Steve McIntyre, the founder of Sitos Group and a veteran of the agriculture industry, explains that he began using biochar at his vineyards eight years ago. After meeting Mayo Ryan, CEO of Sitos Group, the two co-founded the pyrolysis strtup. They worked with manufacturing partners to modify an open-source design and create their own machine.
Sitos Group hopes that the pilot program will lead to a permanent plant at ReGen. Their long-term goal is to deploy hundreds of machines capable of sequestering 1 million tons of CO2 annually by 2030. McIntyre believes that California’s massive agriculture industry provides a market for their technology, as farmers can benefit from biochar and carbon credits offered by government programs.
While agriculture is the main focus, biochar can also be used as an additive in concrete. McIntyre envisions a future where household consumers have their own pyrolysis machines to manage their waste.
ReGen spokesperson Zoë Shoats explains that the pilot program is part of the landfill’s efforts to find the best use for waste products. They aim to create value from compostable materials.
McIntyre is self-financing Sitos Group, but hopes that the success of the pilot program will attract inestors. He believes that building the plant will demonstrate the viability of their technology.
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