# Human waste biochar in concrete production > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/human-waste-biochar-in-concrete-production > Updated: 2026-09-14T12:30:05.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2. Researchers are investigating the use of biochar derived from human waste to enhance concrete durability and reduce the environmental impact of cement production. Cement manufacturing is a significant contributor to climate change, accounting for approximately 88 percent of the concrete industry’s greenhouse gas emissions. A study led by civil engineer Raghuvesh Tiwari at Manipal University Jaipur, published in ‘Scientific Reports’, details a process where human waste is dried and heated in low-oxygen environments to create a fine powder. Laboratory tests found that replacing 5% to 10% of cement with this biochar significantly improved material properties. Specifically, the 10% mixture achieved a 21% increase in compressive strength and a 42% increase in flexural strength after 91 days. The biochar functions by creating microscopic water reservoirs that facilitate the formation of stable calcium silicates. While strength increases at lower replacement levels, researchers noted that strength began to decline at a 15% replacement level, indicating an optimal usage limit. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-14: Biochar from human waste may improve concrete and reduce emissions Scientists are studying how adding biochar derived from human waste to concrete can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve the material's structural strength. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/biochar-from-human-waste-may-improve-concrete-and-reduce-emissions ### 2026-09-11: Manipal University Jaipur researchers develop stronger concrete using human waste biochar Indian researchers have created a stronger, more sustainable concrete by replacing 5% to 10% of cement with biochar produced from processed human waste. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/manipal-university-jaipur-researchers-develop-stronger-concrete-using-human-waste-biochar --- Cite as: Human waste biochar in concrete production. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/human-waste-biochar-in-concrete-production