Biochar is a carbon-rich product derived from organic material, primarily used to enhance sustainable soil management and improve agricultural practices while benefiting the environment. Unlike charcoal, which is typically produced from wood for fuel, biochar is specifically created as a soil amendment. This critical distinction allows biochar to be produced from a diverse range of biomass, not just wood.
Biochar plays a pivotal role in nature-based carbon projects, leveraging its ability to sequester carbon and enhance soil health. By incorporating biochar into sustainable land management practices, we can significantly impact carbon cycling and climate change mitigation.
BIOCHAR
WHAT IS BIOCHAR?
HOW IS BIOCHAR PRODUCED?
Biochar is produced through the process of pyrolysis, which involves the thermal decomposition of organic material, known as biomass, in a low- or non-oxygen environment. The pyrolysis process transforms the carbon in the biomass into a stable form that can sequester carbon for long periods. Common biomass residues used in biochar production include:
- Sawdust
- Cocoa shells
- Rice husks
- Coffee husks
During pyrolysis, the biomass is heated to high temperatures (typically between 300 and 700 degrees Celsius) in the absence of oxygen. This process results in the production of biochar, syngas, and bio-oil. The syngas and bio-oil can be used as renewable energy sources, further enhancing the sustainability of the biochar production process.
BIOCHAR IN NATURE-BASED CARBON PROJECTS
Biochar is integral to nature-based carbon projects due to its multiple environmental benefits. These projects aim to leverage natural processes to sequester carbon and mitigate climate change. Key aspects of biochar in these projects include:
Carbon sequestration
Biochar sequesters carbon in a stable form, preventing it from being released back into the atmosphere. This long-term carbon storage is crucial for achieving climate goals and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Soil health improvement
Biochar improves soil structure, enhances water retention, and increases nutrient availability. These benefits lead to healthier soils and more resilient agricultural systems.
Enhanced crop yields
By improving soil fertility and water retention, biochar contributes to increased crop yields, supporting food security and sustainable agriculture.
Waste management
Using agricultural residues and other biomass waste for biochar production helps manage waste efficiently, turning potential environmental liabilities into valuable resources.
ECONOMIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
Biochar carbon removal credits are tradable in the voluntary carbon market, providing financial benefits. Andrea Vera, a biochar expert at FORLIANCE, explains: “Biochar production ensures that biomass waste is no longer waste. It can provide additional revenue within the biochar industry. By having a Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) carbon methodology for high-value biochar products, we can unlock financial opportunities in the voluntary carbon market in the form of certified carbon credits and scale up the biochar sector.”
FORLIANCE’S ROLE IN BIOCHAR DEVELOPMENT
FORLIANCE has been selected by Verra to develop the respective methodology within its Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) Program, the world’s leading voluntary GHG program. Together with the consortium partners BiocharWorks and SouthPole, and methodology developer Matt Delaney, the team developed a standardized carbon accounting methodology for biochar. This methodology is now instrumental in promoting sustainable practices in the biochar industry.
FAQS
What is the primary difference between biochar and charcoal?
Biochar is used as a soil amendment, while charcoal is primarily used as fuel.
How does biochar help in carbon sequestration?
Biochar locks carbon into a stable form that degrades slowly, keeping carbon out of the atmosphere for decades to centuries.
Can biochar production be scaled up?
Yes, with the right investments and technological advancements, biochar production can be scaled up to meet global demand.
What are the benefits of using biochar in agriculture?
Biochar improves soil structure, enhances water retention, and increases nutrient availability, leading to healthier soils and higher crop yields. It also helps in managing agricultural waste by converting it into a valuable soil amendment.
How does FORLIANCE support biochar projects?
FORLIANCE supports biochar projects by developing standardized carbon accounting methodologies, promoting sustainable practices, and enabling investments in biochar through certified carbon credits. This helps in scaling up the biochar sector and contributing to climate protection and sustainable development.
