Circular Economy Assessment of Biochar-Enhanced Compost in Viticulture Using Ecocanvas

Alexy Apolo-Romero, Nieves García-Casarejos and Pilar Gargallo ()
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Alexy Apolo-Romero: Facultad de Economía y Empresa, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50005 Zaragoza, Spain
Nieves García-Casarejos: Facultad de Economía y Empresa, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50005 Zaragoza, Spain
Pilar Gargallo: Facultad de Economía y Empresa, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50005 Zaragoza, Spain

Agriculture, 2025, vol. 15, issue 18, 1-25

Abstract: This study evaluates the application of circular economy principles in the wine sector through a demonstrative case developed within the LIFE Climawin project. The initiative focuses on the local valorization of vineyard residues by producing biochar from vine pruning and using it to enrich compost derived from winemaking by-products and sheep manure. The combined application of these soil amendments aims to improve soil structure, enhance carbon sequestration, and reduce reliance on synthetic fertilizers. A systemic evaluation was conducted using the Ecocanvas methodology—a conceptual framework for mapping circular business models across environmental, economic, and social dimensions. The analysis integrated a targeted literature review, examination of technical data, direct field observations of composting and biochar production, and semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders. Results indicate multiple benefits from localized residue valorization, including improved compost quality, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, potential contributions to long-term soil health, and enhanced resource efficiency. The analysis also highlights economic opportunities, such as reduced dependency on external inputs, and social value creation through local stakeholder engagement. Furthermore, the study identifies factors that enable or constrain the replication and scaling of this model. These findings contribute to frameworks for advancing circular, economically viable, and socially inclusive climate-resilient agricultural systems.

Keywords: soil amendments; lignocellulosic waste; PESTEL analysis; circular business model; sustainable viticulture (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q1 Q10 Q11 Q12 Q13 Q14 Q15 Q16 Q17 Q18 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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