@ green | September-October . 2024

A carbon-neutral solution with carbon credit potential

Biochar offers a triad of environmental benefits by :

• Carbon sequestration - When incorporated into the soil , biochar can lock away atmospheric carbon dioxide ( CO2 ) for centuries , acting as a significant carbon sink . This helps to offset carbon emissions and contribute to climate change mitigation .

• Soil Enhancement - Biochar improves soil structure , water retention , and nutrient availability , leading to increased crop yields and decreased fertiliser dependency . It not only benefits agriculture but also enhances soil health and resilience .

• Greenhouse gas reduction - Biochar production curbs greenhouse gas emissions by converting biomass into a stable , carbon-rich substance , thereby preventing the release of methane and other potent greenhouse gases during decomposition . Beyond environmental benefits , biochar stimulates economic growth by :

• Job creation - The development of a robust biochar industry in Malaysia will generate employment opportunities across diverse sectors , including biomass production , biochar manufacturing , and agricultural applications .

• Value-added products - Biochar serves as a raw material for various value-added products such as activated carbon , animal feed , and water filtration materials , diversifying revenue streams .

• Rural development - Biochar production can be integrated into rural development strategies , empowering small-scale farmers and communities to actively participate in the green economy .

ADDRESSING CHALLENGES

Despite its potential , the biochar industry faces hurdles like :

• Biomass availability - Ensuring a sustainable supply of biomass for biochar production is crucial . Malaysia ’ s abundant forests and agricultural waste present potential sources , but careful management is imperative to avoid deforestation

BY NANCY SAMYUKTA

Founding Member of MAPAN International Carbon Originator & Trader

and land degradation .

• Technology adoption - Widespread adoption of biochar technology necessitates investment in research and development , coupled with comprehensive training and capacity-building programs for farmers and entrepreneurs .

• Market development - Establishing a thriving market for biochar products is essential . Supportive government policies and incentives can play a pivotal role in stimulating demand .

CARBON CREDITS

One promising avenue for promoting biochar adoption and incentivising its use is through carbon credits . Carbon credits represent a unit of carbon dioxide equivalent that is reduced , captured , or offset through various environmental projects .

By quantifying the carbon sequestered by biochar projects , companies and individuals can purchase carbon credits to offset their emissions .

Organisations like GREENIPATH and MAPAN are promoting the adoption of biochar in Malaysia . They collaborate with government agencies and industry stakeholders to develop supportive policies and mechanisms .

With their combined expertise , Malaysia has the potential to accelerate its journey toward a carbon-neutral economy .

Among the benefits of carbon credits for biochar projects are :

• Revenue generation - By selling carbon credits , biochar project

Biochar is a charcoal-like product made from biomass waste , such as wood or agricultural waste , paper mill waste , or other biological residues . developers can generate additional revenue , making their projects more financially viable .

• Market recognition - Carbon credits can enhance the market value of biochar products , attracting a wider range of buyers .

• Environmental impact - Carbon credits provide a clear and measurable way to quantify the environmental benefits of biochar projects , contributing to climate change mitigation efforts .

CARBON CREDIT FRAMEWORK

To effectively leverage carbon credits for biochar projects , Malaysia needs to establish a robust framework that includes :

• Standardisation - Developing clear standards and methodologies for measuring and verifying carbon emissions reductions from biochar projects is essential .

• Certification - Implementing a certification process to ensure that biochar projects meet the required standards and can issue credible carbon credits .

• Market development - Promoting the development of a vibrant carbon market where buyers and sellers can trade carbon credits efficiently .

GOVERNMENT SUPPORT

Government support is crucial for the successful implementation of a carbon credit framework for biochar projects . This includes :

• Policy development - Creating favourable policies and regulations that incentivise biochar production and carbon credit trading .

• Financial incentives - Providing financial assistance to support biochar project development and carbon credit verification .

• Capacity building - Investing in training and capacity-building programs for stakeholders involved in biochar projects and carbon credit markets .

CONCLUSION

Biochar offers a promising solution for Malaysia ’ s carbon-neutral goals . By leveraging the potential of carbon credits , Malaysia can incentivise biochar adoption , generate economic benefits , and contribute to a more sustainable future .

With the right policies , support , and market development , biochar can play a significant role in Malaysia ’ s transition to a low-carbon economy . – @ green