This work introduces a biochar as novel catalyst prepared from the pistachio hull, and demonstrates its catalytic potential for degrading the reactive red 198 (RR198) dye in catalytic ozonation processes (COPS). The prepared pistachio hull biochar (PHB) was a macroporous, basic material with low specific surface area. PHB had the greatest catalytic potential at an optimal alkaline pH of 10. Significant catalytic potential was observed when PHB was added to the ozonation reactor; a 58.4% catalytic potential was obtained in the decolorization of RR198 in the COP with 0.2 g of catalyst after a reaction time of 60 min. A 71% mineralization (TOC reduction) of the dye solution was observed in the COP after a reaction time of 60 min. Overall, it can be concluded from the experimental results that the PHB is a promising and affordable catalyst for use in COPs for treatment of resistant organic compounds. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.