Following participation in 2023’s Bio360 Expo, the Irish Bioenergy Association (IrBEA) will be hosting an Irish Pavilion at this year’s event, taking place this week on the 24th – 25th of January in Nantes, France.
Following extensive lobbying and advocacy by the Irish Bioenergy Association (IrBEA) and its members over recent years, the Climate Action Plan published by the Government in December 2023, contains for the first-time recognition of the role of both biochar and bioenergy carbon capture and storage (BECCS) as carbon removal measures.
What is Biochar?
Biochar is a real-world application that holds immense promise in the agricultural and industrial sectors, fostering environmental sustainability.
At its core, biochar is a type of charcoal that is produced through the pyrolysis of organic materials, such as agricultural by-products, wood chips or even certain types of algae. Pyrolysis is a process that involves heating these materials in the absence of oxygen, preventing them from combusting, crucially enriching carbon while reducing the oxygen content. This results in the production of biochar, along with bio-oil and syngas. The carbon-rich nature of biochar gives it its distinct properties and potential benefits.
In the ongoing pursuit of sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels, biochar has emerged as a promising contender. This unassuming substance, often referred to as “black gold,” possesses the potential to revolutionise our energy landscape while simultaneously addressing environmental concerns. Derived from organic matter and agricultural byproducts, biochar offers a host of benefits that position it as a viable replacement for fossil fuels. Let’s delve into the captivating world of biochar and explore its multifaceted advantages.