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Comparison of Technical and Operational Conditions of Traditional and Modern Charcoal Kilns: A Case Study in Italy

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  • Alessio Mencarelli

    (Department of Land, Environment, Agriculture and Forestry, University of Padova, Viale dell’Università 16, Legnaro, 35040 Padua, Italy)

  • Raffaele Cavalli

    (Department of Land, Environment, Agriculture and Forestry, University of Padova, Viale dell’Università 16, Legnaro, 35040 Padua, Italy)

  • Rosa Greco

    (Department of Land, Environment, Agriculture and Forestry, University of Padova, Viale dell’Università 16, Legnaro, 35040 Padua, Italy)

  • Stefano Grigolato

    (Department of Land, Environment, Agriculture and Forestry, University of Padova, Viale dell’Università 16, Legnaro, 35040 Padua, Italy)

Abstract

The global charcoal trade is steadily growing, with high-income countries importing significant quantities of this material from regions where its production is often associated with severe environmental issues, including forest overexploitation, illegal logging, and environmental pollution. Promoting local charcoal production in high-income countries is crucial to addressing these challenges. In this study, we have chosen to focus on the European context, specifically emphasizing Italy as a case study. Our study aimed to comprehensively compare five distinct charcoal production systems, including both traditional and modern solutions, with a specific focus on evaluating the quality of the resulting charcoal. Additionally, improvements were evaluated to enhance production efficiency. Traditional systems cannot satisfy production requests, resulting in inefficiencies in manpower, costs, times, and yield. Conversely, recent innovations consider mobile and stationary kiln prototypes. Mobile kilns offer flexibility and cost savings but require operator expertise, limit automation, and have long cycles. In contrast, stationary systems operate continuously, increasing productivity and efficiency, despite higher investment costs. Notably, charcoal quality showed minimal differences. These findings highlighted the potential of new technologies to enhance efficiency, reduce cost and environmental impact, and promote sustainable charcoal production.

Suggested Citation

  • Alessio Mencarelli & Raffaele Cavalli & Rosa Greco & Stefano Grigolato, 2023. "Comparison of Technical and Operational Conditions of Traditional and Modern Charcoal Kilns: A Case Study in Italy," Energies, MDPI, vol. 16(23), pages 1-18, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:16:y:2023:i:23:p:7757-:d:1287148
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Adam, J.C., 2009. "Improved and more environmentally friendly charcoal production system using a low-cost retort–kiln (Eco-charcoal)," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 34(8), pages 1923-1925.
    2. Harun M. Kiruki & Emma H. Zanden & Patrick Kariuki & Peter H. Verburg, 2020. "The contribution of charcoal production to rural livelihoods in a semi-arid area in Kenya," Environment, Development and Sustainability: A Multidisciplinary Approach to the Theory and Practice of Sustainable Development, Springer, vol. 22(7), pages 6931-6960, October.
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