Biochar
Why It’s Important
The production of biochar from waste biomass through pyrolysis results in a beneficial soil amendment that sequesters carbon.
Pyrolyzing invasive Scotch broom, harvest slash, and young stand thinning biomass results in lower greenhouse gas and particulate (PM) emissions.
Practical Applications
The invasive plant, Scotch broom, has many highly flammable oils and resins. When combined with its ability to form dense monocultures, it presents a large fire hazard to our Pacific Northwest forests. Additionally, fire scarifies Scotch broom seeds and promotes germination. The clearing and subsequent conversion of Scotch broom into biochar reduces wildfire hazard and creates a sustainable soil amendment.
