Biochar

To refine "char" technology for cooking fuel and as an alternative to fertilizer in Haiti.

At a Glance

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About This Innovation

Innovation Stats

Innovation Type: 
Approach/Process/System/Operational
Innovation Stage: 
Stage 1: Concept
Country Created In: 
Haiti
Country Implemented In: 
Haiti
Related Programs: 
Development Innovation Ventures (DIV)
Sector: 
Agriculture
Soil Management
Energy
Clean Cooking
Environment
Waste Management
Topic: 
Green Chemistry

Status Update

Carbon Roots International, a U.S.-based nonprofit organization, has been working and refining “char” technology, which converts biomass-like agricultural waste into both cooking fuel and an alternative to fertilizer.

How it Works

Char, when compressed into “green charcoal” briquettes, burns cleaner and slightly longer than the wood charcoal traditionally used for fuel in Haiti, while also preventing the deforestation and environmental pollution associated with using wood. When used as biochar, char acts as a fertilizer-like soil remediation tool that increases water retention, improves cycling of nutrients in the soil, raises crop yields, and sequesters carbon.

Next Steps

Increasing food production and rural commerce in Haiti. The project has the potential to not only addresses Haiti’s energy challenges, but also to improve people’s health and surrounding environment.