Mapping biochar potential in South Carolina: A spatial strategy for climate mitigation and soil restoration

South Carolina's extensive forest cover comprising approximately 67 % of its land area of 5.2 million hectares presents a significant opportunity for sustainable biomass utilization through biochar production. Biochar, a carbon-rich byproduct of pyrolysis, offers multiple co-benefits, including carbon sequestration, soil enhancement, and wildfire risk mitigation. This study utilized a multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) framework integrated with geospatial modeling to identify priority zones for disperse biochar production sites across the state. Key variables such as forest type, biomass availability, slope, proximity to roads, proximity to mills, cropland, and wildfire risk were analyzed to develop a suitability map for biochar production sites. None of the past studies utilized the OD cost matrix for the network analysis and none studies incorporated the fire risk map and existing mills for such analysis, as these impacts suitable sites identification. Results highlight the Orangeburg, Chesterfield and Hampton regions suitable for biochar production sites. The total average above ground biomass growth per year was 71060.11 tons from nine sites, of which 14211.92 tons above ground biomass are available for the biochar production sites. These findings align with broader goals of climate adaptation, land restoration, and rural economic development. The study underscores the strategic role biochar can play in South Carolina's land management portfolio and calls for further research, policy support, and stakeholder engagement to scale implementation across forestry and agricultural sectors.