Cormac and Restord launch pioneering biochar pilot project in Cornwall

What is biochar?

Biochar is a carbon-rich, charcoal-like material produced by heating organic matter in an oxygen-deprived environment, a process known as pyrolysis. Traditional decomposition and burning of forestry waste release greenhouse gases; however, transforming this biomass into biochar captures and locks away carbon for thousands of years while improving soil health through its microbial, nutrient, and water-retention properties.

Tackling climate change 

Biochar is identified as one of the most effective and permanent carbon removal solutions currently available, complementing other nature-based approaches to emissions that cannot be fully eliminated. The pilot project aims to convert up to 200 tonnes of biomass into 40 tonnes of biochar, effectively sequestering approximately 100 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent—comparable to the annual emissions of around 16 UK citizens.

Stuart Wright, Head of Environmental Sustainability for Cormac, emphasised the importance of the initiative: "Many leading products and technologies currently available have ultra-low emissions rather than zero emissions. Biochar provides a means to offset some of our unavoidable residual emissions locally in a more permanent way than tree planting. Beyond carbon removal, it enriches soils, reduces watering needs for urban planting, and provides a sustainable solution for forestry waste generated from diseases like ash dieback. It’s a win-win for the climate and local ecosystems."

Academic expertise for sustainable outcomes 

The collaboration is further strengthened by the expertise of the University of Plymouth’s Net Zero Entrepreneurial Futures team, which contributes essential research and data analysis capabilities. This not only establishes a robust foundation for expanding biochar production and applications but also ensures alignment with scientific best practices for maximum positive environmental outcomes.

Award-winning podcast celebrates the journey 

Restord has gained wider industry recognition through its 'Grounded' podcast, which recently won Gold in the 'Environment and Sustainability' category of the 2024 Signal Awards. The podcast intimately details Restord's startup journey through candid interviews, highlighting the challenges and triumphs along the way while raising awareness about the significant potential of biochar.

Restord founder Tom Previte stated, "Our collaboration with Cormac has been instrumental in securing the waste feedstock needed for our initial production run. Biochar can help bridge the global carbon removal gap, and we're excited to continue sharing our journey through season 2 of our now award-winning podcast, Grounded."

Looking ahead 

As the pilot progresses, Cormac and Restord are dedicated to exploring additional biochar feedstock sources and applications, including its potential roles in water filtration and infrastructure. This aligns with a broader vision of utilising biochar across diverse sectors that build local circular economies.

By transforming forestry waste into valuable biochar, Cormac and Restord are taking significant strides towards a sustainable future. Together, they are driving innovation in carbon removal and setting an inspiring example of local action and collaborative problem-solving, poised to enhance Cornwall's position in the green economy and serve as a model for similar initiatives nationally.

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