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  • What is EBF?
  • 6 Words
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  • 24 Impact Projects
  • 2500+ Lex Icons
  • 1 Bundled Token
  • 1 Simulator
  • 207 Team Members
THE PROJECT
POSITIVE IMPACTS
METHODOLOGY

Pacific Biochar

Biochar Project

Transform

Pacific Biochar reduces the threat of catastrophic wildfires in the Pacific Northwest by removing woody biomass from high fire hazard areas. Cogeneration power plants produce heat and electricity from the biomass, and simultaneously create a valuable co-product: biochar. The biochar is currently used primarily to aid agriculture and for carbon sequestration.

Contact:

Josiah Hunt,

Founder

josiah@pacificbiochar.com

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Biochar conversion facility - Source - Pacific Biochar
Biochar - Source - Pacific Biochar
Truck unloading biochar for agricultural purposes - Source - Pacific Biochar

Ecological Benefits Targets

Pacific Biochar provides advanced biochar products in large capacities with a focus on agriculture and ecosystem management.

The project utilizes forest biomass from high fire hazard areas in California and modifies biomass power plants to produce biochar, thus leveraging existing infrastructure, trained staff, and hard-earned utility and procurement contracts. By collecting biomass from high fire hazard areas, the project also helps mitigate catastrophic wildfires. Once produced, the high-quality biochar is distributed, primarily in agriculture, and commonly in collaboration with compost yards. This creates efficiency in shared equipment and trucking, as well as additional ecological benefits; when biochar is used in composting, it not only makes a great combined product, it also significantly reduces GHG emissions from compost.

Air

Air

Pacific Biochar’s practices help mitigate catastrophic wildfires by removing concentrated levels of biomass. When combined with compost, biochar also significantly reduces odors and GHG emissions.

Water

Biochar has the capacity to capture excessive nutrients and even pollutants in soil. It can also increase the soil’s capacity to retain water, thus increasing the availability of water to plants.

Soil

When applied to soil, biochar increases soil organic matter (SOM) and improves its quality, and can also enhance nutrient availability and uptake by plants.

Biodiversity

Mitigating catastrophic wildfires protects animal habitats and diverse ecosystems. Enhancing soil health and biodiversity can also promote more productive and diverse ecosystems.

Equity

Pacific Biochar helps to improve air quality in rural farming regions, providing benefits to neighboring communities, and donating to underserved and young farmers.

Carbon

Pacific Biochar adds biochar to early stage compost applications, reducing emissions and sequestering carbon in soil that will benefit farmers and climate mitigation efforts.

Community

Operation Location: United States of America (California)
Coordinates: Ea 85’V nam CUm 80’P
Land Tenure: Pacific Biochar works globally with local producers and industries. The biochar is produced from forest residue covering land that is owned by a combination of co-operatives, private individuals, companies, and governments. The primary action occurs at the sites where biochar is processed, while ancillary actions occur at farmlands and forests.

Project Development

Project Developer: Pacific Biochar

Josiah Hunt is the founder of Pacific Biochar and has been a pioneer in the industry. He believes in the promise of biochar and appreciates the synergies it can produce between industries.

Biochar is a compelling solution across multiple fronts: it not only reduces air pollution and the risk of catastrophic wildfires, it also benefits the farmers who receive it by improving their crop yields, increasing soil water retention, and enhancing the soil’s microbiome.

Stakeholders & Beneficiaries

Pacific Biochar’s direct beneficiaries are new farmers, forestry professionals, and future generations. Other beneficiaries include companies along the value chain such as cogeneration plants and compost companies, as well as communities in wildfire-prone areas.

State of Development

Fully Operational

Project Launch

EBF Sector

Built

Project Type

Transform

Credit Type

Certificates

Carbon credits on the registries of EBC C-Sink, Carbon Standards International, and Carbonfuture.

Data PrivaCy

Yes

# of annual credits produced

25000
https://www.carbonicons.org/fingerprints/pacific-biochar?background-hidden&overlay-hidden&no-blur
Air

Air.

Clean air is vital for maintaining human health, reducing the risk of respiratory diseases, and supporting ecosystem balance and biodiversity.

Pacific Biochar has a multifaceted impact on air quality through various approaches. The project's conversion and enhanced efficiency of biomass plants reduces emissions and contributes to cleaner air. These advancements in plant conversion and efficiency also decrease wood burning, which further improves air quality by decreasing the demand for wood resources and reducing associated deforestation. Additionally, Pacific Biochar's practice of collecting wood from high fire hazard areas serves the dual purpose of mitigating wildfire risks and safeguarding clean air quality for surrounding communities and the environment.

Practices

(to learn more about practices, check out our podcast series)

Air Quality (improved)

Air Quality (improved)

Practice

Positive modifications to air quality achieved by controlling and reducing pollution levels, dust, particulate matter (PM) emissions, and by consistently monitoring overall quality.

X

Pacific Biochar’s practices help mitigate catastrophic wildfires by removing concentrated levels of biomass. When biochar is mixed with compost, noxious gases and GHG emissions are also reduced.

Trust

Self-Reported

Carbon Sink

Carbon Sink

Practice

A natural or artificial reservoir that absorbs and stores carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere; helps mitigate climate change by reducing the concentration of GHGs; systems that absorb more carbon than they release (e.g., forests, oceans, soils) play a crucial role in balancing the carbon cycle.

X

Biochar enhances carbon sequestration in soils and compost. It can also capture and retain carbon for use as an additive used in various building and manufacturing processes (e.g., cement, plastics).

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Watershed Conservation

Watershed Conservation

Practice

The protection and management of areas in an ecosystem where water drains to a common point (e.g., river, lake, ocean).

X

By improving forest health, Pacific Biochar reduces surface runoff and conserves water. This increases the ecological stability of watersheds and decreases pressure on freshwater resources.

Trust

Self-Reported

Fire Management (improved)

Fire Management (improved)

Practice

Preventative forest management strategy that uses brush management practices (e.g., prescribed burns, livestock grazing) to imitate natural processes that reduce fuel loads and mitigate catastrophic wildfires.

X

Pacific Biochar produces biochar from biomass that is collected from high fire hazard areas. By reducing potential fuel, the project significantly contributes to mitigating catastrophic wildfires.

Trust

Standards & Certifications

Deforestation (decreased)

Deforestation (decreased)

Practice

Halting or avoiding the removal of preexisting forest ecosystems; often requires combatting the conversion of forest ecosystems into land for commercial, industrial, or agricultural uses.

X

Pacific Biochar's focuses on using forest biomass from high fire hazard areas, thereby avoiding catastrophic wildfires and extensive damage to forests.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Forest Carbon Monitoring

Forest Carbon Monitoring

Practice

Monitoring and assessing changes in forest cover, carbon stocks, and associated emissions or removals in carbon forestry projects or REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation) initiatives.

X

Pacific Biochar works with researchers and forestry service personnel to analyze forest carbon stocks in designated extraction sites in order to assess impacts of biomass removal on carbon stocks.

Trust

Self-Reported

Water.

Clean and accessible water is crucial for the well-being of ecosystems, the preservation of biodiversity, and the fulfillment of essential human needs.

Pacific Biochar's use of biochar as a soil and compost amendment yields several benefits for soil health and water management. When biochar is incorporated into soils, it improves the soil's organic carbon content, fosters biological activity, sequesters nutrients, and augments water retention and availability in the soil. This multifaceted approach not only contributes to soil health, it also plays a pivotal role in improving the wellbeing of forests. Healthier forests fortify nearby watersheds, reducing runoff and allowing for better conservation of water resources, which ultimately alleviates pressure on freshwater supplies. Consequently, Pacific Biochar's endeavors synergistically bolster the ecological stability of watersheds and promote responsible freshwater resource management.

Practices

(to learn more about practices, check out our podcast series)

Watershed Conservation

Watershed Conservation

Practice

The protection and management of areas in an ecosystem where water drains to a common point (e.g., river, lake, ocean).

X

By improving forest health, Pacific Biochar reduces surface runoff and conserves water. This increases the ecological stability of watersheds and decreases pressure on freshwater resources.

Trust

Self-Reported

Fire Management (improved)

Fire Management (improved)

Practice

Preventative forest management strategy that uses brush management practices (e.g., prescribed burns, livestock grazing) to imitate natural processes that reduce fuel loads and mitigate catastrophic wildfires.

X

Pacific Biochar produces biochar from biomass that is collected from high fire hazard areas. By reducing potential fuel, the project significantly contributes to mitigating catastrophic wildfires.

Trust

Standards & Certifications

Surface Runoff (reduced)

Surface Runoff (reduced)

Practice

Practices that increase the ability of water to penetrate and soak into the ground during periods of excessive accumulation and precipitation, as opposed to flowing off the land into surface water; typically used in the context of water management to reduce flooding and erosion.

X

By improving forest health, Pacific Biochar reduces surface runoff and conserves water. These practices increase the ecological stability of watersheds and decrease pressure on freshwater resources.

Trust

Self-Reported

Soil Health (improved)

Soil Health (improved)

Practice

Increased capacity of soil to function as a living ecosystem and to support other life; characterized by a loose, friable, and well-drained structure, presence of adequate nutrients, a pH between 5.5 and 7.5, and high levels of biological activity, with little to no evidence of pollutants or toxins.

X

Pacific Biochar produces biochar which, when applied to soils, increases soil organic carbon, enhances biological activity, captures nutrients, and enhances water retention and availability.

Trust

Standards & Certifications

Deforestation (decreased)

Deforestation (decreased)

Practice

Halting or avoiding the removal of preexisting forest ecosystems; often requires combatting the conversion of forest ecosystems into land for commercial, industrial, or agricultural uses.

X

Pacific Biochar's focuses on using forest biomass from high fire hazard areas, thereby avoiding catastrophic wildfires and extensive damage to forests.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Water Quantity and Availability (increased)

Water Quantity and Availability (increased)

Practice

Practices that increase the water supply available for human uses that avoid detrimental impacts to the water cycle and respective ecosystems; can include digging boreholes and water wells, as well as water conservation practices.

X

The use of biochar as a soil and compost additive improves water retention and increases its availability for plants and soil microorganisms.

Trust

Self-Reported

Forest Carbon Monitoring

Forest Carbon Monitoring

Practice

Monitoring and assessing changes in forest cover, carbon stocks, and associated emissions or removals in carbon forestry projects or REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation) initiatives.

X

Pacific Biochar works with researchers and forestry service personnel to analyze forest carbon stocks in designated extraction sites in order to assess impacts of biomass removal on carbon stocks.

Trust

Self-Reported

Soil.

Healthy soils are essential for promoting robust plant growth, enhancing nutrient cycling, supporting diverse microbial communities, and mitigating soil erosion.

The use of biochar as a soil and compost amendment enhances soil quality, fostering fertility, and boosting farmland productivity. By incorporating biochar into soils, the project effectively captures nutrients and makes them readily available to plants, thus amplifying their growth potential. A noteworthy facet of this approach is its contribution to the creation of a habitat that is conducive to microorganisms. The porosity and unique structure of biochar, which effectively retains water and nutrients, serves as an ideal environment for a diverse and thriving ecosystem of soil microorganisms. Moreover, the application of biochar not only amplifies the soil's ability to nurture plant life, it also accentuates the habitat and conditions for these essential soil microorganisms.

Practices

(to learn more about practices, check out our podcast series)

Fire Management (improved)

Fire Management (improved)

Practice

Preventative forest management strategy that uses brush management practices (e.g., prescribed burns, livestock grazing) to imitate natural processes that reduce fuel loads and mitigate catastrophic wildfires.

X

Pacific Biochar produces biochar from biomass that is collected from high fire hazard areas. By reducing potential fuel, the project significantly contributes to mitigating catastrophic wildfires.

Trust

Standards & Certifications

Soil Health (improved)

Soil Health (improved)

Practice

Increased capacity of soil to function as a living ecosystem and to support other life; characterized by a loose, friable, and well-drained structure, presence of adequate nutrients, a pH between 5.5 and 7.5, and high levels of biological activity, with little to no evidence of pollutants or toxins.

X

Pacific Biochar produces biochar which, when applied to soils, increases soil organic carbon, enhances biological activity, captures nutrients, and enhances water retention and availability.

Trust

Standards & Certifications

Surface Runoff (reduced)

Surface Runoff (reduced)

Practice

Practices that increase the ability of water to penetrate and soak into the ground during periods of excessive accumulation and precipitation, as opposed to flowing off the land into surface water; typically used in the context of water management to reduce flooding and erosion.

X

By improving forest health, Pacific Biochar reduces surface runoff and conserves water. These practices increase the ecological stability of watersheds and decrease pressure on freshwater resources.

Trust

Self-Reported

Deforestation (decreased)

Deforestation (decreased)

Practice

Halting or avoiding the removal of preexisting forest ecosystems; often requires combatting the conversion of forest ecosystems into land for commercial, industrial, or agricultural uses.

X

Pacific Biochar's focuses on using forest biomass from high fire hazard areas, thereby avoiding catastrophic wildfires and extensive damage to forests.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Soil Microorganisms (increased)

Soil Microorganisms (increased)

Practice

Efforts that enhance the diversity, abundance, and activity of beneficial microbes in soil; supports nutrient cycling, organic matter breakdown, and soil health for sustainable land and agricultural practices.

X

Biochar's porosity and structure improve the quality of soil as a habitat for microorganisms. By increasing the soil's ability to retain water and nutrients, biochar allows microorganisms to thrive.

Trust

Standards & Certifications

Soil Fertility (improved)

Soil Fertility (improved)

Practice

The ability of soil to support plant growth for agriculture purposes or as suitable habitat for native plants; in agriculture, assesses the soil's ability to provide sustained and consistent yields of high quality crops.

X

The application of biochar enhances soil fertility and farmland productivity by providing habitat for microorganisms and by capturing nutrients to increase their availability for plants.

Trust

Standards & Certifications

Carbon Sink

Carbon Sink

Practice

A natural or artificial reservoir that absorbs and stores carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere; helps mitigate climate change by reducing the concentration of GHGs; systems that absorb more carbon than they release (e.g., forests, oceans, soils) play a crucial role in balancing the carbon cycle.

X

Biochar enhances carbon sequestration in soils and compost. It can also capture and retain carbon for use as an additive used in various building and manufacturing processes (e.g., cement, plastics).

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Carbon Tracking

Carbon Tracking

Practice

The process of long-term carbon monitoring; quantifies the carbon emissions and carbon footprint of a project or organization over a time.

X

Pacific Biochar's laboratories, infrastructure, and ecological analyses are all included in a blockchain-based tracking system that tracks carbon through the value chain.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Forest Carbon Monitoring

Forest Carbon Monitoring

Practice

Monitoring and assessing changes in forest cover, carbon stocks, and associated emissions or removals in carbon forestry projects or REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation) initiatives.

X

Pacific Biochar works with researchers and forestry service personnel to analyze forest carbon stocks in designated extraction sites in order to assess impacts of biomass removal on carbon stocks.

Trust

Self-Reported

Biodiversity.

Clean and accessible water is crucial for the well-being of ecosystems, the preservation of biodiversity, and the fulfillment of essential human needs.

Pacific Biochar's work actively promotes biodiversity. By capturing and retaining essential nutrients in soils, their use of biochar supports diverse plant species, in turn providing critical habitats for wildlife. The porosity and structure of biochar create a thriving ecosystem for soil microorganisms, further enriching biodiversity. This approach also enhances forest health, reducing pressure on freshwater resources and stabilizing watersheds, thus supporting a range of flora and fauna. Additionally, carbon sequestration and improved ecosystem resilience help mitigate climate change's effects and disturbances, fostering a resilient and biodiverse environment.

Practices

(to learn more about practices, check out our podcast series)

Air Quality (improved)

Air Quality (improved)

Practice

Positive modifications to air quality achieved by controlling and reducing pollution levels, dust, particulate matter (PM) emissions, and by consistently monitoring overall quality.

X

Pacific Biochar’s practices help mitigate catastrophic wildfires by removing concentrated levels of biomass. When biochar is mixed with compost, noxious gases and GHG emissions are also reduced.

Trust

Self-Reported

Fire Management (improved)

Fire Management (improved)

Practice

Preventative forest management strategy that uses brush management practices (e.g., prescribed burns, livestock grazing) to imitate natural processes that reduce fuel loads and mitigate catastrophic wildfires.

X

Pacific Biochar produces biochar from biomass that is collected from high fire hazard areas. By reducing potential fuel, the project significantly contributes to mitigating catastrophic wildfires.

Trust

Standards & Certifications

Surface Runoff (reduced)

Surface Runoff (reduced)

Practice

Practices that increase the ability of water to penetrate and soak into the ground during periods of excessive accumulation and precipitation, as opposed to flowing off the land into surface water; typically used in the context of water management to reduce flooding and erosion.

X

By improving forest health, Pacific Biochar reduces surface runoff and conserves water. These practices increase the ecological stability of watersheds and decrease pressure on freshwater resources.

Trust

Self-Reported

Deforestation (decreased)

Deforestation (decreased)

Practice

Halting or avoiding the removal of preexisting forest ecosystems; often requires combatting the conversion of forest ecosystems into land for commercial, industrial, or agricultural uses.

X

Pacific Biochar's focuses on using forest biomass from high fire hazard areas, thereby avoiding catastrophic wildfires and extensive damage to forests.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Water Quantity and Availability (increased)

Water Quantity and Availability (increased)

Practice

Practices that increase the water supply available for human uses that avoid detrimental impacts to the water cycle and respective ecosystems; can include digging boreholes and water wells, as well as water conservation practices.

X

The use of biochar as a soil and compost additive improves water retention and increases its availability for plants and soil microorganisms.

Trust

Self-Reported

Soil Microorganisms (increased)

Soil Microorganisms (increased)

Practice

Efforts that enhance the diversity, abundance, and activity of beneficial microbes in soil; supports nutrient cycling, organic matter breakdown, and soil health for sustainable land and agricultural practices.

X

Biochar's porosity and structure improve the quality of soil as a habitat for microorganisms. By increasing the soil's ability to retain water and nutrients, biochar allows microorganisms to thrive.

Trust

Standards & Certifications

Watershed Conservation

Watershed Conservation

Practice

The protection and management of areas in an ecosystem where water drains to a common point (e.g., river, lake, ocean).

X

By improving forest health, Pacific Biochar reduces surface runoff and conserves water. This increases the ecological stability of watersheds and decreases pressure on freshwater resources.

Trust

Self-Reported

Soil Health (improved)

Soil Health (improved)

Practice

Increased capacity of soil to function as a living ecosystem and to support other life; characterized by a loose, friable, and well-drained structure, presence of adequate nutrients, a pH between 5.5 and 7.5, and high levels of biological activity, with little to no evidence of pollutants or toxins.

X

Pacific Biochar produces biochar which, when applied to soils, increases soil organic carbon, enhances biological activity, captures nutrients, and enhances water retention and availability.

Trust

Standards & Certifications

Soil Fertility (improved)

Soil Fertility (improved)

Practice

The ability of soil to support plant growth for agriculture purposes or as suitable habitat for native plants; in agriculture, assesses the soil's ability to provide sustained and consistent yields of high quality crops.

X

The application of biochar enhances soil fertility and farmland productivity by providing habitat for microorganisms and by capturing nutrients to increase their availability for plants.

Trust

Standards & Certifications

Equity.

Supporting equity and inclusion fosters social justice, ensures equal access to resources derived from the environment, and promotes the well-being and participation of all, regardless of background or circumstances.

Pacific Biochar's initiatives have the potential to impact social equity in various ways. Their practices can generate economic opportunities, offering jobs in rural areas and addressing economic disparities. Improved air and water quality resulting from wildfire risk reduction and soil enhancement benefits communities vulnerable to poor air quality. Enhanced soil fertility contributes to agricultural productivity, potentially bolstering local farmers' livelihoods. Moreover, by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and supporting ecological benefits, Pacific Biochar indirectly contributes to environmental justice and community resilience.

Practices

(to learn more about practices, check out our podcast series)

Carbon Tracking

Carbon Tracking

Practice

The process of long-term carbon monitoring; quantifies the carbon emissions and carbon footprint of a project or organization over a time.

X

Pacific Biochar's laboratories, infrastructure, and ecological analyses are all included in a blockchain-based tracking system that tracks carbon through the value chain.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Water Quantity and Availability (increased)

Water Quantity and Availability (increased)

Practice

Practices that increase the water supply available for human uses that avoid detrimental impacts to the water cycle and respective ecosystems; can include digging boreholes and water wells, as well as water conservation practices.

X

The use of biochar as a soil and compost additive improves water retention and increases its availability for plants and soil microorganisms.

Trust

Self-Reported

Air Quality (improved)

Air Quality (improved)

Practice

Positive modifications to air quality achieved by controlling and reducing pollution levels, dust, particulate matter (PM) emissions, and by consistently monitoring overall quality.

X

Pacific Biochar’s practices help mitigate catastrophic wildfires by removing concentrated levels of biomass. When biochar is mixed with compost, noxious gases and GHG emissions are also reduced.

Trust

Self-Reported

Auditability

Auditability

Practice

The ability to inspect a data set or site to determine whether its corresponding operational and financial practices adhere to predetermined protocols.

X

Pacific Biochar's generated carbon credits undergo periodic audits, verification, and monitoring to assess predicted permanence of carbon stocks.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Carbon Sink

Carbon Sink

Practice

A natural or artificial reservoir that absorbs and stores carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere; helps mitigate climate change by reducing the concentration of GHGs; systems that absorb more carbon than they release (e.g., forests, oceans, soils) play a crucial role in balancing the carbon cycle.

X

Biochar enhances carbon sequestration in soils and compost. It can also capture and retain carbon for use as an additive used in various building and manufacturing processes (e.g., cement, plastics).

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Watershed Conservation

Watershed Conservation

Practice

The protection and management of areas in an ecosystem where water drains to a common point (e.g., river, lake, ocean).

X

By improving forest health, Pacific Biochar reduces surface runoff and conserves water. This increases the ecological stability of watersheds and decreases pressure on freshwater resources.

Trust

Self-Reported

Fire Management (improved)

Fire Management (improved)

Practice

Preventative forest management strategy that uses brush management practices (e.g., prescribed burns, livestock grazing) to imitate natural processes that reduce fuel loads and mitigate catastrophic wildfires.

X

Pacific Biochar produces biochar from biomass that is collected from high fire hazard areas. By reducing potential fuel, the project significantly contributes to mitigating catastrophic wildfires.

Trust

Standards & Certifications

Surface Runoff (reduced)

Surface Runoff (reduced)

Practice

Practices that increase the ability of water to penetrate and soak into the ground during periods of excessive accumulation and precipitation, as opposed to flowing off the land into surface water; typically used in the context of water management to reduce flooding and erosion.

X

By improving forest health, Pacific Biochar reduces surface runoff and conserves water. These practices increase the ecological stability of watersheds and decrease pressure on freshwater resources.

Trust

Self-Reported

Deforestation (decreased)

Deforestation (decreased)

Practice

Halting or avoiding the removal of preexisting forest ecosystems; often requires combatting the conversion of forest ecosystems into land for commercial, industrial, or agricultural uses.

X

Pacific Biochar's focuses on using forest biomass from high fire hazard areas, thereby avoiding catastrophic wildfires and extensive damage to forests.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Carbon.

Carbon capture and storage plays a crucial role in tackling climate change, and by safeguarding the sustainability of our ecosystems, helps to ensure a thriving future for all living beings.

Pacific Biochar's use of biochar plays a pivotal role in carbon management. Biochar's carbon sequestration capabilities serve as a vital lifeline for species vulnerable to environmental shifts. Importantly, Pacific Biochar exercises caution by employing a conservative estimate of permanence when assessing the carbon stored by biochar, thus accounting for unforeseen ecological outcomes. In agricultural operations, biochar emerges as a powerful ally in carbon sequestration, even when used in early-stage compost, where it efficiently reduces multiple greenhouse gas emissions.

Practices

(to learn more about practices, check out our podcast series)

Forest Carbon Monitoring

Forest Carbon Monitoring

Practice

Monitoring and assessing changes in forest cover, carbon stocks, and associated emissions or removals in carbon forestry projects or REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation) initiatives.

X

Pacific Biochar works with researchers and forestry service personnel to analyze forest carbon stocks in designated extraction sites in order to assess impacts of biomass removal on carbon stocks.

Trust

Self-Reported

Soil Microorganisms (increased)

Soil Microorganisms (increased)

Practice

Efforts that enhance the diversity, abundance, and activity of beneficial microbes in soil; supports nutrient cycling, organic matter breakdown, and soil health for sustainable land and agricultural practices.

X

Biochar's porosity and structure improve the quality of soil as a habitat for microorganisms. By increasing the soil's ability to retain water and nutrients, biochar allows microorganisms to thrive.

Trust

Standards & Certifications

Air Quality (improved)

Air Quality (improved)

Practice

Positive modifications to air quality achieved by controlling and reducing pollution levels, dust, particulate matter (PM) emissions, and by consistently monitoring overall quality.

X

Pacific Biochar’s practices help mitigate catastrophic wildfires by removing concentrated levels of biomass. When biochar is mixed with compost, noxious gases and GHG emissions are also reduced.

Trust

Self-Reported

Conservative Discounting

Conservative Discounting

Practice

The ability to inspect a data set or site to determine whether its corresponding operational and financial practices adhere to predetermined protocols.

X

Pacific Biochar's generated carbon credits undergo periodic audits, verification, and monitoring to assess predicted permanence of carbon stocks.

Trust

Self-Reported

/On-Blockchain

Carbon Sequestration

Carbon Sequestration

Practice

The capturing, removal, and storage of carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the earth's atmosphere; effectiveness typically expressed in terms of anticipated stability and duration of storage.

X

When applied in agricultural operations, biochar can enhance carbon sequestration. In particular, when biochar is used in early-stage compost, it helps reduce a variety of GHG emissions.

Trust

Self-Reported

Carbon Tracking

Carbon Tracking

Practice

The process of long-term carbon monitoring; quantifies the carbon emissions and carbon footprint of a project or organization over a time.

X

Pacific Biochar's laboratories, infrastructure, and ecological analyses are all included in a blockchain-based tracking system that tracks carbon through the value chain.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Fire Management (improved)

Fire Management (improved)

Practice

Preventative forest management strategy that uses brush management practices (e.g., prescribed burns, livestock grazing) to imitate natural processes that reduce fuel loads and mitigate catastrophic wildfires.

X

Pacific Biochar produces biochar from biomass that is collected from high fire hazard areas. By reducing potential fuel, the project significantly contributes to mitigating catastrophic wildfires.

Trust

Standards & Certifications

GHG Emissions (reduced)

GHG Emissions (reduced)

Practice

Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions prevented or reduced to mitigate climate change; determined by calculating the difference between emissions produced in the actual scenario versus a hypothetical scenario where actions are taken to reduce emissions.

X

Cogeneration plants can burn woody biomass with reduced GHG emissions. When Pacific Biochar adds biochar to early-stage compost, it also reduces GHG emissions and improves carbon sequestration.

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Carbon Sink

Carbon Sink

Practice

A natural or artificial reservoir that absorbs and stores carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere; helps mitigate climate change by reducing the concentration of GHGs; systems that absorb more carbon than they release (e.g., forests, oceans, soils) play a crucial role in balancing the carbon cycle.

X

Biochar enhances carbon sequestration in soils and compost. It can also capture and retain carbon for use as an additive used in various building and manufacturing processes (e.g., cement, plastics).

Trust

Third-Party Verification

Measurement, Reporting and Verification (MRV)

Pacific Biochar’s mission aligns with many different ecological benefits because biochar itself, from its production and up to the point of its use, has many benefits for Air, Water, Soil, Biodiversity, Equity, and Carbon.

Pacific Biochar has been dedicated to enhancing biomass energy production and introducing biochar for agricultural use since the project was created. It also concurrently benefits local communities by creating jobs.

Pacific Biochar itself benefits mainly from the sale of carbon credits. By recognizing the impact of carbon sequestration, the project has been able to develop robust systems for measuring, reporting, and verifying the scale of its impact.

[Learn more about the challenges of measurement and equity]

Primary Measurement Methods

This overview is not an endorsement or recommendation and should not be used as the basis for any investment decision.

Measurement (M)

Description

Benefits

Reporting Method (R)

Verification Type (V)

Testing

As per EBC certification, each batch of biochar is tested for water holding capacity, electric conductivity, carbon content, volatile organic compounds, heavy metals, and more.
Air Clean air is vital for maintaining human health, reducing the risk of respiratory diseases, and supporting ecosystem balance and biodiversity.

Air.

Air.

Clean and accessible water is crucial for the well-being of ecosystems, the preservation of biodiversity, and the fulfillment of essential human needs.

Water.

Water.

Healthy soils are essential for promoting robust plant growth, enhancing nutrient cycling, supporting diverse microbial communities, and mitigating soil erosion.

Soil.

Soil.

Enhancing and safeguarding biodiversity ensures the stability of ecosystems by providing invaluable services such as pollination, pest control, and genetic diversity.

Biodiversity.

Biodiversity.

Diversity and inclusion foster social justice, ensure equal access to resources derived from the environment, and promote the well-being of all, regardless of background.

Equity.

Equity.

Carbon capture and storage is crucial for tackling climate change, and by safeguarding the sustainability of our ecosystems, helps to ensure a thriving future for all.

Carbon.

Carbon.

Measuring, assessment, and record-keeping conducted by the project collaborators. Self-reporting may include fieldwork, collecting quantitative and qualitative data, stakeholder evaluations, verifying paperwork, and other methods.

Self-Reported

Self-Reported

Project collaborators may use data capture and verification methods such as game cameras, in-field geo-referenced documentation, and satellite data to confirm self-reported results.

Raw Data

Raw Data

Some or all data is placed onto blockchain to ensure the immutability and transparency of specified shared data, sometimes using specified protocols for designated certifiers and registries.

On-Blockchain

On-Blockchain

Evaluation or assessment conducted by an independent, trusted entity utilizing established standards and protocols, often in association with a specified certification process.

Standards & Certifications

Standards & Certifications

Evaluation or assessment is conducted by an independent, trusted entity to ensure the accuracy and integrity of reported data.

Third-Party Verified

Third-Party Verified

Record keeping mechanism that establishes standardized protocols for credit issuance and project registration, and provides a public ledger where credit ownership can be tracked from creation to retirement; the traceability of registry transactions protects the integrity of credit assets by ensuring that a credit or token cannot be allocated to more than one entity.

Registry

Registry

Emissions Monitoring

Alongside reporting and sampling of biochar, Pacific Biochar continously monitor emissions and avoidance of emissions in relation to biochar application and production.
Air Clean air is vital for maintaining human health, reducing the risk of respiratory diseases, and supporting ecosystem balance and biodiversity.

Air.

Air.

Clean and accessible water is crucial for the well-being of ecosystems, the preservation of biodiversity, and the fulfillment of essential human needs.

Water.

Water.

Healthy soils are essential for promoting robust plant growth, enhancing nutrient cycling, supporting diverse microbial communities, and mitigating soil erosion.

Soil.

Soil.

Enhancing and safeguarding biodiversity ensures the stability of ecosystems by providing invaluable services such as pollination, pest control, and genetic diversity.

Biodiversity.

Biodiversity.

Diversity and inclusion foster social justice, ensure equal access to resources derived from the environment, and promote the well-being of all, regardless of background.

Equity.

Equity.

Carbon capture and storage is crucial for tackling climate change, and by safeguarding the sustainability of our ecosystems, helps to ensure a thriving future for all.

Carbon.

Carbon.

Measuring, assessment, and record-keeping conducted by the project collaborators. Self-reporting may include fieldwork, collecting quantitative and qualitative data, stakeholder evaluations, verifying paperwork, and other methods.

Self-Reported

Self-Reported

Project collaborators may use data capture and verification methods such as game cameras, in-field geo-referenced documentation, and satellite data to confirm self-reported results.

Raw Data

Raw Data

Some or all data is placed onto blockchain to ensure the immutability and transparency of specified shared data, sometimes using specified protocols for designated certifiers and registries.

On-Blockchain

On-Blockchain

Evaluation or assessment conducted by an independent, trusted entity utilizing established standards and protocols, often in association with a specified certification process.

Standards & Certifications

Standards & Certifications

Evaluation or assessment is conducted by an independent, trusted entity to ensure the accuracy and integrity of reported data.

Third-Party Verified

Third-Party Verified

Record keeping mechanism that establishes standardized protocols for credit issuance and project registration, and provides a public ledger where credit ownership can be tracked from creation to retirement; the traceability of registry transactions protects the integrity of credit assets by ensuring that a credit or token cannot be allocated to more than one entity.

Registry

Registry

Visual and Physical Analysis

Pacific Biochar uses visual and physical analyses of biochar application to ascertain how much carbon it avoids or stores once applied.
Air Clean air is vital for maintaining human health, reducing the risk of respiratory diseases, and supporting ecosystem balance and biodiversity.

Air.

Air.

Clean and accessible water is crucial for the well-being of ecosystems, the preservation of biodiversity, and the fulfillment of essential human needs.

Water.

Water.

Healthy soils are essential for promoting robust plant growth, enhancing nutrient cycling, supporting diverse microbial communities, and mitigating soil erosion.

Soil.

Soil.

Enhancing and safeguarding biodiversity ensures the stability of ecosystems by providing invaluable services such as pollination, pest control, and genetic diversity.

Biodiversity.

Biodiversity.

Diversity and inclusion foster social justice, ensure equal access to resources derived from the environment, and promote the well-being of all, regardless of background.

Equity.

Equity.

Carbon capture and storage is crucial for tackling climate change, and by safeguarding the sustainability of our ecosystems, helps to ensure a thriving future for all.

Carbon.

Carbon.

Measuring, assessment, and record-keeping conducted by the project collaborators. Self-reporting may include fieldwork, collecting quantitative and qualitative data, stakeholder evaluations, verifying paperwork, and other methods.

Self-Reported

Self-Reported

Project collaborators may use data capture and verification methods such as game cameras, in-field geo-referenced documentation, and satellite data to confirm self-reported results.

Raw Data

Raw Data

Some or all data is placed onto blockchain to ensure the immutability and transparency of specified shared data, sometimes using specified protocols for designated certifiers and registries.

On-Blockchain

On-Blockchain

Evaluation or assessment conducted by an independent, trusted entity utilizing established standards and protocols, often in association with a specified certification process.

Standards & Certifications

Standards & Certifications

Evaluation or assessment is conducted by an independent, trusted entity to ensure the accuracy and integrity of reported data.

Third-Party Verified

Third-Party Verified

Record keeping mechanism that establishes standardized protocols for credit issuance and project registration, and provides a public ledger where credit ownership can be tracked from creation to retirement; the traceability of registry transactions protects the integrity of credit assets by ensuring that a credit or token cannot be allocated to more than one entity.

Registry

Registry

Measurements

Pacific Biochar subscribes to the European Biochar Certificate (EBC) Standard to receive carbon credits for its biochar production. This certificate standardizes how biochar should be produced by specifying what kind of biomass should be used to produce biochar, which power plant types it should be produced in, and what degree of heat is required to produce it.

As part of this process, each batch of biochar that is produced must undergo a scrutinous process in which the batch is associated with an ID and monitored from production to application. This includes monitoring the supply chain, biochar production, biochar sampling, and a complete transparency of the health and safety of all that are involved in the process.

Measurements of biochar quality are part and parcel of the certification. The standards for biochar require experts to examine things such as the carbon content of the biochar, the amount of volatile organic compounds, and limiting the amount of heavy metals found in the product. These measurements and standards are part of a thorough verification that afford Pacific Biochar their European Biochar Certificate.

Reporting

Production and application data is collected and updated on a database. That data is put on the blockchain as a requirement of the platform.

While the blockchain system of Pacific Biochar delivers credits and data, they do not tokenize the credits. Much of the data is stored locally, on the cloud.

Samples of biochar are regularly sent, by batch, with corresponding IDs and QR codes, for sampling. This is part of Pacific Biochar European Biochar Certificate and is what gives them accreditation or the ability to sell credits for their work. Bulk density and water content are necessary specifications for trading biochar as well as for the production of consistent substrate mixtures and materials requiring consistent carbon contents.

All this information is carefully documented and reported. Each processing step of biochar and biochar-based products must be documented in a processing journal. The quantity and quality of all processed biochar and the amount of biochar contained in the final products must be documented as well.

Verification

Biochar is mainly used as a part of a processed product such as a soil-amendments, potting soil, compost, fertilizer, bedding material, feed, or as an additive. To guarantee and properly label products made with European Biochar Certificate (EBC) certified biochar, the entire supply chain including production, processing, packaging, and labeling of the products needs to be inspected and certified.

Pacific Biochar is certified by the European Biochar Certificate so that their product will be recognized with some of the highest standards for the product. This allows them more easily to get to markets such as the Carbon Future platform, where their credits are sold currently. This certification requires an in depth verification that includes sending samples of biochar for inspection, labeling and tracking all biochar and the supplychain, and reporting all of the data to EBC.

The inspection of the EBC is coordinated worldwide by the independent, state-accredited inspection body bio.inspecta AG. The inspection is carried out on site at each production facility. It takes place once a year. Producers are obliged to keep their production records up to date and their entire biochar production site must be inspected and certified, regardless of whether only one batch, several or all batches qualify for one of the EBC certificates.

Risk

The risk of carbon stock loss is virtually nonexistent. However, there is currently no comprehensive monitoring or management plan in place to actively track and mitigate any potential losses. When estimating the carbon that is stored by biochar, a conservative estimate of permanence is applied, but this estimate cannot be directly extrapolated to factors like air quality, water resources, soil health, biodiversity, or social equity in the same manner.

There is no specific buffer pool designated for carbon credits by Pacific Biochar, although such a mechanism could prove advantageous for other ecological benefits. The existing carbon credits framework does not incorporate considerations for future climate changes or other environmental variables, although it is conceivable that these factors could be addressed through complementary ecological benefits.

Permanence

Biochar degrades very slowly and the release of carbon is negligible with rates such as 96% carbon retained in 100 years, 59% retained in 500 years, and 35% retained in 1000 years. The calculation of carbon credits is based on the scientifically endorsed EBC C-Sink methodology. Given its notably extended lifespan, biochar ensures a sustainable approach to long-term carbon sequestration.

To maintain the integrity of the generated carbon credits, rigorous periodic audits, verifications, and ongoing monitoring protocols are implemented. These measures serve the crucial purpose of continuously assessing and confirming the anticipated permanence of carbon stocks, providing a reliable and accountable system for carbon credit management.

Additionality

Pacific Biochar’s economic sustainability relies on the support of carbon credits, without them, the project’s financial viability would be compromised. Encouragingly, Pacific Biochar has not encountered significant regulatory or policy barriers that would hinder project implementation, even in the absence of carbon credits.

Leakage

Pacific Biochar has not induced any shifting of emissions or activities to other regions or sectors, ensuring a responsible and contained approach. The project’s activities do not trigger unintended consequences related to market dynamics or behaviors. Additionally, Pacific Biochar takes measures to minimize any indirect effects that might undermine its intended emissions reductions.

Market

Pacific Biochar operates within a structured system to distribute carbon credits and to fairly compensate its various stakeholders throughout the process. The project’s carbon credits are formally registered on EBC C-Sink, Carbon Standards International, and Carbonfuture registries, and are also externally certified and validated through EBC C-Sink.

Carbon credits generated by Pacific Biochar are paid for in advance, usually via direct deposit, and are delivered 6-12 months later. Most the project’s credits are sold directly to buyers, the majority of whom are located in the United States. Other credits are channeled through intermediaries like Carbon Direct, WREN, CarbonFuture, and South Pole.

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