Can this ‘burnt toast’-like substance be a key tool in the fight against climate change?

Biochar, a black, charcoal-like substance created through a process called pyrolysis, is gaining popularity as a climate fix and soil enhancer. Greg Porteous, a resident of Courtenay, B.C., has taken up the hobby of making biochar in his backyard using a kiln he purchased online. He started this initiative as a way to combat climate change and provide a beneficial product for his community.

Biochar is an effective tool for carbon removal, as it can store carbon in the soil for long periods. Kathleen Draper, a board member of the U.S. Biochar Initiative, likens biochar to “burnt toast,” explaining that the carbon in organic materials is trapped in the substance through pyrolysis. This process helps reduce carbon emissions and can be utilized in various applications, such as improving soil quality, enhancing crop yields, and even cleaning up water bodies contaminated with phosphorus.

Annette Cowie, a researcher at the New South Wales Department of Primary Industries, emphasizes the benefits of biochar in agriculture, stating that it can increase soil alkalinity, moisture retention, and nutrient availability. By incorporating biochar into the soil, carbon can be stored for extended periods, contributing to long-term carbon sequestration.

In addition to its soil-enhancing properties, biochar can also be used to mitigate the risk of wildfires by converting dead wood and organic matter into a stable carbon form. Dipita Ghosh, a researcher at Northern Arizona University, has been studying the use of biochar to reduce wildfire fuel in forested areas. The CharBoss kiln, a portable device for producing biochar, has been instrumental in this research, allowing for on-site conversion of biomass into a beneficial product.

As interest in biochar grows, more countries and corporations are investing in biochar production. Google, for instance, has committed to purchasing carbon credits from an Indian initiative that converts agricultural waste into biochar. Denmark has also implemented a strategy to incorporate biochar into its agricultural waste management practices.

Warren Mabee, the director of Queen’s University’s Institute for Energy and Environmental Policy, emphasizes the importance of scaling up biochar production in a sustainable manner. While small-scale production, like Porteous’s backyard setup, can yield significant benefits, careful consideration must be given to sourcing materials and ensuring proper application of biochar.

In conclusion, biochar offers a promising solution for carbon sequestration and soil improvement. By harnessing the potential of biochar production, individuals like Greg Porteous can make a meaningful impact on climate change and soil health in their communities.