This study uses the tree stumps of the three representative trees in Taiwan (Leucaena leucocephala, Syzygium samarangense, and Ziziphus jujuba) as the material source and recyclable oyster shell powder as an activator. A carbonization process for upgrading and recycling the tree stumps was developed with our homemade, digital-controlled, energy-saving carbonization system. First, the tree stumps are carbonized at a medium temperature of 500 °C and then heated to 900 °C for high-temperature carbonization, followed by the activation procedure as required. With our method, we can produce biochar with a high proportion of fixed carbon and a high proportion of meso- and macropores while maximizing the yield of wood vinegar. The specific surface area of the meso- and macropores can reach up to 70 m²/g or more. The effect of different activation materials on the pore characteristics and specific surface area of biochar was carefully examined. It was found that both KOH and oyster shell powder is the ideal activator for producing biochar with a high proportion of meso- and macropores. The FTIR spectrum, CEC, and contents of the ordinary elements and heavy metals of the biochar were also reported. It is clear from the FTIR data that the absorption peaks of the overall spectrum of the three types of biochar after carbonization at high temperature are cleaner than those of biochar carbonized at low temperature. This research can promote the recycling of agricultural residues, enhance soil carbon sequestration, preserve fertilizers, and suppress diseases and pests, moving towards approaching the goal of net-zero carbon emissions.

This study utilized two common macroalgae species from Taiwanese waters, green algae Ulva lactuca (Ulva) and red algae Sarcodia suae (Sarcodia), to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of a novel cell wall disruption technique combining Fenton reagent and ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE). The study analyzed protein characteristics, polysaccharide changes, and texture properties after pretreatment. Following cell wall disruption, the combined treatment of Fenton reagent and ultrasound significantly enhanced protein extraction yields, reaching 13.34 ± 0.50 % for Ulva and 3.96 ± 0.28 % for Sarcodia. In addition to increased yields, SDS-PAGE analysis and elevated free amino acid concentrations confirmed extensive protein degradation into low-molecular-weight peptides, indicating effective breakdown of protein structures. This enhanced degradation profile suggests that the pretreatment not only improves extraction efficiency but also promotes the production of functional protein hydrolysates. The surface hydrophobicity of the treated macroalgae significantly increased, while total and free sulfhydryl groups showed a decreasing trend, indicating that proteins were broken into smaller peptides, resulting in the destruction of sulfhydryl groups. To investigate the impact of the novel extraction technique on polysaccharides, the water-soluble total sugar and reducing sugar contents were measured. The disrupted Sarcodia samples showed total sugar and reducing sugar contents of 33.62 % and 2.76 mg/mL, respectively, while Ulva samples exhibited 27.00 % and 3.12 mg/mL, with significant increases observed in both macroalgae. Additionally, texture analysis and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed that cell wall disruption enhanced the texture and compactness of the macroalgae. This study presents a high-efficiency cell wall disruption technique that effectively overcomes the challenges associated with macroalgae processing. By providing a robust scientific foundation, the research highlights the potential of macroalgae as valuable resources for food processing and plant-based meat production, while simultaneously contributing to sustainable practices and supporting efforts to reduce carbon emissions.

Concerns about the safety of traditional preservatives in personal care products are driving interest toward self-preserving alternatives. This study explores the potential of B. stenostachya leaf extracts, a natural and biodegradable material, for use in cosmetics. B. stenostachya, a fast-growing bamboo species native to Taiwan, is rich in bioactive compounds, including flavonoids with antimicrobial properties. Leaves were obtained from the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) in Tainan, Taiwan, and extracted using ultrasonic and Soxhlet methods with water, 50% ethanol, and 95% ethanol. The highest yield was achieved with 50% ethanol at 100 °C. Cytotoxicity was evaluated using the NIH/3T3 mouse fibroblast cell line, with no toxicity observed at dilutions between 1/3200 and 1/400, indicating the extract’s safety for cosmetic use. Antimicrobial activity was tested in accordance with ISO 11930:2019 standards. The extract effectively inhibited Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus pathogens, meeting preservative efficacy Standards A and B for long-term microbial control. Bamboo is a sustainable resource with lower environmental impacts, and its products show promising biodegradability and reduced environmental footprints. This research indicates that the B. stenostachya leaf extract offers a sustainable alternative to chemical preservatives, promoting both environmental sustainability and public health, with the potential for expanded use in natural personal care formulations.