Biochar technology holds promise as a tool to mitigate climate change and improve soil quality, as well as reducing waste and producing energy as a byproduct Biochar is a charcoal-like substance made by burning organic material from agricultural and forestry wastes (biomass) in a controlled process called pyrolysis. Although it resembles common charcoal, biochar is produced using a specific process to reduce contamination and safely store carbon.

  During pyrolysis organic materials, such as wood chips, leaf litter or dead plants, are burned in a container under limited oxygen. As the materials burn, they release little to no contaminating fumes. During the pyrolysis process, the organic material is converted into biochar, a stable form of carbon that can’t easily escape into the atmosphere. The energy or heat created during pyrolysis can be captured and used as a form of clean energy. Biochar is by far more efficient at converting carbon into a stable....