Invest in the Climate Action Power of Biochar

Biochar is a stable, carbon-rich material produced from sustainably sourced biomass through pyrolysis — a low-oxygen, high-heat thermal process that is largely self-sustaining once initiated. During pyrolysis, carbon contained in the biomass is converted into a solid, highly stable form that can remain stored for hundreds to thousands of years.    When applied in agriculture, biochar improves soil structure, increases water and nutrient retention, and supports long-term soil fertility. These agronomic benefits make biochar particularly attractive for farming systems — while at the same time enabling durable carbon removal.    Beyond agricultural uses in soil, biochar can also be used in livestock feed, organic fertilizers, and construction materials, extending its climate impact across multiple sectors. In essence, biochar combines permanent carbon removal with real-world environmental co-benefits.

Biochar becomes a carbon removal solution when its production and use are embedded in a robust, verified climate project.  In First Climate’s biochar program, the amount of carbon stored in biochar is quantified, monitored, and independently verified according to internationally recognized standards. Only the fraction of carbon that is demonstrably stable over long time horizons is credited as carbon removal.  Revenues from the sale of carbon removal credits enable biochar producers and farmers to scale production, adopt best practices, and expand the use of biochar — ensuring that climate impact goes hand in hand with sustainable land management and rural development.

Residual biomass is transformed  Biogenetic CO2 captured in trees or plants is diverted from decay or incineration, which releases emissions to the atmosphere.    Using proven technology  A self-sustaining pyrolysis process converts carbon in biomass into biochar, locking it in a solid form -- biochar.    Into a long-term carbon sink  When applied to soils or embedded in durable materials, this carbon is stored for centuries.    Benefits beyond carbon capture/storage  Biochar improves soil performance and adds high-value properties to a wide range of products.

Biochar carbon removal projects can be grouped into industrial and artisanal production approaches, which differ in their methods, scale, and impacts.  Industrial biochar projects typically operate large-scale, centralized pyrolysis facilities with highly standardized processes, consistent feedstock supply, and high output volumes. These projects are well suited for buyers seeking scalability, predictable volumes, and long-term offtake carbon credit agreements.  Artisanal biochar projects, by contrast, are often decentralized and community-based. They rely on smaller production units and locally available biomass, creating strong social and environmental co-benefits in rural regions, particularly in the Global South.  Both approaches are effective, and First Climate works with both industrial and artisanal biochar projects around the globe —letting you select solutions that align with your climate strategy, risk profile, and impact priorities.

First Climate has extensive experience in developing, financing, and certifying high-integrity carbon removal projects. Our biochar program combines technical expertise, rigorous certification, and long-standing partnerships with project developers across Europe and internationally.  Leading companies — including Microsoft and Swiss Post — already integrate First Climate’s biochar carbon removal solutions within their corporate climate strategies.  First Climate pioneered biochar carbon removal by developing the world’s first biochar methodology in 2018. Since then, our biochar program has been continuously refined and certified—setting the benchmark for credible, high-quality carbon removal. Initially under the ISO 14-064-2 standard, our biochar program now has projects with certified carbon credits issued by additional top-tier carbon standards, such as Puro.Earth,(http://Puro.Earth) Biochar & Artisan C-Sink, the Verified Carbon Standard, and Isometrics. In accordance with industry protocols, the measurable carbon sink impact of First Climate’s various projects is periodically verified by independent auditors.

First Climate operates a leading biochar carbon removal program in Europe, with a strong foundation in Switzerland and a growing portfolio of high-quality projects across the region. These projects demonstrate how biochar can deliver durable carbon removal solutions while creating real value for agriculture, industry, and local communities.    Beyond Europe, First Climate supports biochar initiatives around the world. This includes large-scale industrial projects such as CARBONITY in Canada – one of North Americas largest biochar facilities – , as well as artisanal and community-based biochar projects in regions including India, Zimbabwe, and Colombia. Together, these projects reflect a diversified, global approach to biochar carbon removal—spanning different technologies, scales, and local contexts.