A delegate of the Board of the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has concluded assessment of a proposal by The New Black Biochar Pty Ltd, and Dovetail Timbers Pty Ltd – Sawmill and Pyrolysis Facility, Huonville, in the Huon Valley Council municipality.
The proposal comprises two linked activities on land owned by Dovetail Timbers Pty Ltd. A small-scale sawmill, to be operated by Dovetail Timbers, with a production capacity of less than 1,000 cubic metres per year and a pyrolysis facility, to be operated by The New Black Biochar Pty Ltd, producing biochar on a leased portion of the site.
The biochar production process involves:
• Stockpiling feedstock, including sawdust, green waste, and clean construction and demolition waste
• Chipping, shredding, and screening materials on site
• Processing the feedstock through pyrolysis
• Handling and storing the resulting biochar
The two operations will share site infrastructure, including access, stormwater systems, feedstock (sawdust), office facilities, and water supply.
Public consultation was open for 17 days from 6 March 2026. No representations were made in relation to the proposal.
The Board’s delegate has considered the relevant issues and determined that the proposal can be managed in an environmentally sustainable manner, with conditions imposed. Key conditions include those related to air and noise emissions.
The Board’s delegate undertook assessment of the proposal in accordance with the Environmental Impact Assessment Principles in Section 74 of the Environmental Management and Pollution Control Act 1994.
This decision and all assessment documents can be viewed at The New Black Biochar Pty Ltd, and Dovetail Timbers Pty Ltd, Sawmill and Pyrolysis Facility, Huonville.
Published on:
20/05/2026