Carbon Removal Using Biochar

Scalable, Sustainable Solutions for Climate Mitigation

1. Challenge & Opportunity

Climate change poses an existential threat, with atmospheric CO₂ levels exceeding 420 ppm as of 2023. To limit global warming to 1.5°C, the IPCC emphasizes the need for scalable carbon dioxide removal (CDR) technologies alongside emissions reductions. Biochar, a stable, carbon-rich material produced through biomass pyrolysis, offers a dual solution:

• Carbon Sequestration: Biochar locks carbon in a stable form for centuries, mitigating atmospheric CO₂.

• Co-Benefits: Enhances soil health, reduces agricultural emissions, and filters contaminants (as demonstrated in water filtration applications).

2. Solution: Biochar for Carbon Sequestration

Biochar is produced by heating biomass (e.g., agricultural waste, forestry residues) in a low-oxygen environment (pyrolysis). Its properties enable long-term carbon storage:

High Carbon Content: >60% organic carbon depending on feedstock and pyrolysis conditions.
Stability: Resists microbial decomposition, with a mean residence time of 100–1,000 years in soils.
Scalability: Compatible with decentralized production, especially in rural areas with abundant biomass.
Engineered biochar: Can be optimized for maximum carbon retention by adjusting pyrolysis temperature (400–700°C) and feedstock selection.

3. Evidence & Impact

Peer-reviewed studies and field trials validate biochar’s carbon removal potential:

4. ARTi’s R&D Services for Carbon Removal

We support biochar CDR projects through:

Feedstock Analysis: Lab testing to optimize carbon yield (e.g., lignin-rich feedstocks).
Pyrolysis Optimization: Temperature and residence time tuning for maximum stability.
Soil Integration R&D: Field trials to quantify carbon sequestration and agronomic benefits.
Techno-Economic Analysis (TEA): Cost-benefit modeling for smallholder farms to large-scale CDR projects.
Life Cycle Assessment (LCA): Verifying net-negative emissions across supply chains.

5. Barriers & Mitigation

Variable feedstock quality
- R&D Service: Standardization with certifications aligned with EBC/IBI guidelines.
Limited carbon credit standardization
- Policy Advocacy: Engaging regulators to expand CDR incentives.

6. Call to Action

We Support biochar CDR projects through:

Biochar is a ready-to-deploy CDR technology with co-benefits for soil, water, and communities. Partner with ARTi to develop tailored biochar CDR projects, access cutting-edge R&D for carbon optimization, and navigate carbon markets and certification.

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Biochar a solution for carbon removal