Towards a faster and broader application of biochar: appropriate marketing mechanisms

Abstract

Biochar derived from organic wastes and incorporated in soils offers multiple environmental and financial benefits. This approach tackles several critical global issues including waste management, renewable energy production, greenhouse gas mitigation, soil degradation prevention, food security, reduced water pollution from agrochemicals, and water quality and quantity enhancement. But farm level production and use of biochar is not yet viable, largely due to financial and technical constraints. Thus, an incentive mechanism for farmers is crucial for its successful adoption. This paper analyses both the current provisions and the marketing mechanisms of the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), one of the three market-based mechanisms of the Kyoto Protocol which links developed and developing countries in achieving global emission targets, and identifies appropriate marketing vehicle for biochar projects.