@ARTICLE{Mirowski_Tomasz_Green_2025, author={Mirowski, Tomasz and Pacura, Wiktor and Domagała, Julia}, volume={vol. 28}, number={No 2}, pages={135–150}, journal={Polityka Energetyczna - Energy Policy Journal}, howpublished={online}, year={2025}, publisher={Instytut Gospodarki Surowcami Mineralnymi i Energią PAN}, abstract={This study explores the potential of olive stones as a renewable biofuel for small-scale heating systems. Olive oil production generates approximately 4 million tonnes of olive stones annually, often classified as waste. By analyzing their elemental and physical properties, this research evaluates the energy potential of olive stones, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional fuels. A sample from Spain underwent elemental, technical, and thermogravimetric analyses. The results revealed a high calorific value of 18.26 MJ/kg, which can be attributed to the considerable carbon (47.4%) and hydrogen (6.1%) content, along with minimal sulfur levels. This composition makes olive stones a promising low-emission fuel. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that pyrolysis occurs in four phases, with 65% of the mass lost between 170 and 866°C, indicating the material’s suitability for thermal energy applications. The findings suggest that olive stones hold significant potential for use in renewable energy systems. Their utilization aligns with circular economy principles, transforming waste into energy and reducing environmental impact. Olive stones have low ash and moisture content, improving their efficiency as a fuel. Their high volatile matter content also supports energy-efficient gasification processes, further enhancing their energy potential. In conclusion, this study confirms that olive stones are a viable alternative to fossil fuels, particularly for small-scale heating applications. With their high energy value, low emissions, and minimal residual waste, olive stones offer a sustainable and efficient energy solution. Their use not only supports green energy production but also contributes to reducing the carbon footprint and promoting sustainability.}, title={Green energy from bio-waste – study on the properties of olive stones for use as fuel in small-scale heating systems}, type={Article}, URL={http://czasopisma.pan.pl/Content/135604/PDF-MASTER/07-08-EPJ-00388-2024-03-Mirowski%20i%20in.pdf}, keywords={olive stones, biofuel, renewable energy, pyrolysis, circular economy}, }