Biochar and pyrolysis explained

Our biochar plants will use technology called pyrolysis to heat various organic feedstocks, such as chipped timber and woody materials rejected from composting operations. The process operates at high temperature but in the absence of oxygen so that feedstock materials do not burn. The process has been likened to high temperature baking. Gases and oils are driven off the feedstock, harvested and combusted and this will generate a small amount of renewable energy in the form of electricity that can be used to power itself and feed into the national grid. The residual heat can be used onsite to heat the building and dry the woodchips or other feedstock.

The main product output is biochar, a charcoal-like substance that can be used as a soil enhancer in agriculture and horticulture, a carbon-negative additive to materials like asphalt and concrete, and an air or water filter to capture pollutants – just like activated charcoal. In all cases it acts as a store of carbon dioxide that would otherwise return to the atmosphere when plants rot or are burnt..

The biochar can then be applied to the earth or added to construction materials, thereby storing the carbon for 100+ years. Because of this, we are eligible to sell carbon dioxide removal credits in the carbon market or keep the credits ourselves to help offset our own emissions.