Story perspectives

Coffee Biochar Boosts Concrete Strength, Cuts Emissions

11/29/2025

Summary

Story summary

Replacing 15% of sand with coffee biochar from spent grounds increases concrete strength by 30% and reduces carbon emissions by 26%.
The method converts spent coffee grounds into biochar for concrete, developed by researchers at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology.
A life-cycle analysis shows a 31% decrease in fossil fuel use.
The team is engaging with industry and government for larger pilots to advance Australia’s circular economy and net-zero goals.

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Story summary

Replacing 15% of sand with coffee biochar from spent grounds increases concrete strength by 30% and reduces carbon emissions by 26%.
The method converts spent coffee grounds into biochar for concrete, developed by researchers at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology.
A life-cycle analysis shows a 31% decrease in fossil fuel use.
The team is engaging with industry and government for larger pilots to advance Australia’s circular economy and net-zero goals.