BCR is the most immediately scaleable, mature, affordable, permanent carbon dioxide removal (#CDR) approach available, responsible for 92% of all permanent CDR deliveries in the first half of 2023 (CDR.fyi). A peer-reviewed study published today and commissioned by the International Biochar Initiative dives into its potential to scale to climate relevance.
Here are my key takeaways from the report:
๐ Global Impact: BCR's carbon sequestration potential was analyzed on a global scale. The study considered various biomass feedstocks such as agricultural residues, livestock manure, forestry waste, and organic materials from various sectors.
๐ Country Rankings: The report ranks countries with the highest biochar potential in absolute terms, revealing that countries like China, the U.S., Brazil, and India have substantial potential for carbon dioxide removal, ranging from 225 to 468 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent per year.
๐ Percentage of Emissions: Some nations can offset a significant percentage of their total greenhouse gas emissions through biochar production. Countries like Eswatini, Malawi, Argentina, and Ghana can make a substantial impact, with BCR potentially offsetting over 20% of their emissions.
๐ Scaleability of BCR: BCR can potentially remove up to 6% of global emissions annually โ the approximate equivalent of 3 billion tonnes of CO2 or the total emissions of 803 coal-fired power plants in one year. What a stat!
In conclusion, BCR presents a promising avenue for carbon removal, but its potential varies depending on factors like feedstock availability and local conditions. As we strive for sustainable climate solutions, this study serves as a good reminder that we will need a portfolio/variety of solutions to get to >10Gt/year, and that BCR can play a significant role in the mix.
What is your take? Does this takeaway resonate with you?
Link to full report: https://biochar-international.org/news/biochar-offers-an-accelerated-pathway-to-global-decarbonization-says-new-research/
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