GLRPPR Sector Resource: Biochar: Assessing the Promise and Risks To Guide U.S. Policy
Title:
Biochar: Assessing the Promise and Risks To Guide U.S. Policy
Abstract:
In this report, we describe biochar production pathways, energy co-products resulting from biochar production and their potential uses, assess the key environmental risks associated with biochar production and utilization systems, discuss estimates of global technical and economic potential for biochar production and carbon sequestration, and give a brief overview of existing domestic and international policies on biochar.
We conclude with recommendations for a research agenda to support biochar policy development in the U.S. We
find that a critical shortage of pilot and commercial scale biochar production and utilization systems, especially slow pyrolysis, and thus a critical shortage of biochar for field testing, are a major barrier to addressing the uncertainties and risks associated with biochar today. To acquire the data needed to develop a U.S. biochar policy, we believe that several commercial-sized demonstration projects are needed. To develop these projects and analyze results would require about eight years and cost between $100 million and $150 million.
URL:
http://www.nrdc.org/energy/files/biochar_paper.pdf
Source:
Natural Resources Defense Council
Resource Type:
Article/report
Date of Publication:
November 2010
Associated Sectors:
