TOWING and Suntory Begin Full-Scale Production of Biochar from Beverage Residue

TOWING and Suntory Holdings have confirmed yield increases in joint trials of high-performance biochar. They are now beginning full-scale production using manufacturing residue in the Kyushu region to build a local circular model. Since May 2025, they tested biochar made from tea dregs from Suntory plants combined with TOWING's microbes, applying it to contracted tea plantations. This resulted in a 30% yield increase while maintaining quality. The biochar will be produced at Suntory's Kyushu Kumamoto Plant and applied to local tea farms. The companies are also exploring overseas applications, including tests in Thailand using rice husks in sugarcane fields to address agricultural burning and reduce GHG emissions. TOWING's 'Soratan' biochar upcycles unused biomass, improves soil, stabilizes crop yields, cuts chemical fertilizer needs, and generates carbon credits by fixing carbon in farmlands. Suntory aims to advance regenerative agriculture and resource circulation through these efforts.