Columbus, Mississippi, April 15, 2026 / SDI Biocarbon Solutions celebrated the successful operation of its biocarbon production facility with an event on April 15, 2026. This state-of-the-art $300 million facility employs over 80 team members and is planned to be one of the largest renewable biocarbon production facilities globally.
The facility uses high-temperature pyrolysis to convert sustainably sourced biomass to a high-purity solid biocarbon product, which is used as a cost-effective, renewable replacement for anthracite coal in Steel Dynamics’ steelmaking operations. In 2025, the facility began producing biocarbon that has been successfully used as a carbon replacement at Steel Dynamics Columbus Flat Roll Steel Division. This allows Steel Dynamics to further strengthen its supply chain, while bolstering domestic manufacturing and supporting additional jobs in their communities. Earlier this year, the plant achieved Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC), ensuring responsible sourcing of fiber used in the biocarbon process. This innovative model creates a new relationship between America’s agricultural and steelmaking industries, providing a sustainable, long-term source of economic value to domestic foresters while also improving the competitiveness of Steel Dynamics’ steel products. The team continues to refine operations and increase production.
“We are incredibly excited about the progress that has been made by the SDI Biocarbon Solutions team,” said Mark D. Millett, Steel Dynamics Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “This investment represents a significant step toward the decarbonization of our steel mills to meet growing customer demand for lower-carbon steel products. We are excited to expand our lower-embodied-carbon steel product offerings, and we are committed to providing high-quality, innovative supply-chain solutions that are essential to maintaining competitiveness in today’s global market.
“We appreciate the warm welcome and support that we have received from Governor Tate Reeves, Mississippi Federal officials and the State of Mississippi, as well as leaders from the Mississippi Development Authority and local leaders from the Lowndes County Board of Supervisors, the Lowndes County Industry Development Authority, the Lowndes County Port Authority, the Golden Triangle Regional Airport Authority and the Golden Triangle Development LINK,” concluded Millett.
“Mississippi is proud to celebrate this major milestone with SDI Biocarbon Solutions as they continue to lead the way in innovative, American-made manufacturing,” said Governor Tate Reeves. “This $300 million investment in Columbus is strengthening our state’s position at the forefront of steel production and delivering good jobs to Mississippians. By turning Mississippi’s abundant natural resources into a cutting-edge product, this facility is helping power the future of American industry. We are grateful for SDI Biocarbon Solutions’ continued commitment to our state and her people.”
“Steel Dynamics’ more than $300 million investment in a new biocarbon facility in the Golden Triangle is great news for our state’s agriculture sector and its role in the future of American steelmaking,” said U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.). “It will open meaningful new markets for our landowners and farmers while reinforcing the strong domestic manufacturing base on which our nation depends. Columbus and Mississippi are proud to be home to this facility, and I’m proud to support such a forward-looking investment that will deliver benefits to our state and the U.S. economy.”
“It’s an honor to be a part of this day to represent the U.S. Forest Service alongside Steel Dynamics, Aymium, Governor Reeves, Mississippi regional leaders and the local Lowndes County community,” said Shannon Bozeman, Forest Supervisor for the National Forests in Mississippi with the U.S. Forest Service at the Department of Agriculture. “This innovative facility is a tremendous example of how industry partnerships can facilitate active forest management practices and support local landowners, loggers, and forestry cooperatives across the great state of Mississippi.”
“We are very fortunate for our partnership with SDI and their deep commitment to this leading-edge technology, the great team we have at SDI Biocarbon Solutions, and the incredible federal, state and local support for this new facility,” said Jim Mennell, Aymium Founder and Chief Executive Officer. “We look forward to realizing its meaningful economic and environmental benefits.”
