Description

Enable Earth is a first-of-its-kind biochar project in Wiang Pa Pao District, Chiang Rai, Thailand, addressing the pressing issue of PM2.5 pollution caused by the open burning of corn residues. By converting these residues into biochar using advanced pyrolysis technology, the project not only prevents harmful emissions but also provides a sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers, improving soil health and crop yields. Located in a region heavily impacted by pollution and climate challenges, Project Enable turns an environmental problem into a solution, showcasing the potential of biochar to transform agriculture and air quality.

Application

The biochar is mixed with compost and distributed to farmers as a sustainable alternative to harmful chemical fertilizers. To raise awareness of biochar’s benefits, the project will set up pilot plots near the facility to showcase its impact on soil health and crop productivity. Collaboration with local universities and organizations will drive innovation, while advanced monitoring technologies, including AI and satellite data, will track and optimize biochar application performance.

Feedstock

The feedstock is corn residues (stalks, leaves and small cobs) supplied by local corn farmers.

Co-benefits

• Soil and Agricultural Improvement

  • Demonstrates the benefits of biochar and compost to replace chemical fertilizers, improving soil health and reducing environmental harm.
  • Encourages local farmers to adopt sustainable practices, lowering dependency on harmful chemicals.

  Educational Support

  • Supports higher education opportunities for local children, enabling them to adopt better farming techniques or pursue other professions.

  Economic Opportunities

  • Promotes economic growth by encouraging farmers to diversify into higher-value crops.
  • Provides opportunities for upskilling and less labor-intensive work.

  Clean Technology Adoption

  • Introduces environmentally friendly technologies to convert corn residues into biochar, reducing open-air burning and PM2.5 pollution.
  • Spurs innovation in agricultural and industrial processes for better residue utilization.

  Air Quality and Community Health

  • Reduces PM2.5 emissions caused by open burning, contributing to improved air quality in Northern Thailand.
  • Offers a scalable model to improve regional air quality.

  Responsible Farming Practices

  • Creates a traceable system to reward and incentivize farmers who avoid residue burning.
  • Encourages sustainable corn production practices across the animal feed value chain.

  Climate Resilience

  • Permanently sequesters CO2 through biochar production, actively contributing to climate action.

  Ecosystem Restoration

  • Restores soil quality to enable the growth of perennial trees, mitigating deforestation impacts.
  • Aims to prevent floods and other climate change-related challenges by improving land use.

Emissions avoidance

• By preventing the open burning of corn residues, Project Enable significantly reduces PM2.5 emissions and other harmful pollutants.
• The process also avoids the release of CO2 from residue combustion, contributing to improved air quality and climate change mitigation.
  
  
  

Additionality

Project Enable provides a solution where none currently exists by converting otherwise burned corn residues into biochar, a process that sequesters carbon and improves soil health. Without this project, residues would continue to be burned, contributing to severe air pollution and environmental degradation. The initiative also introduces biochar to a region where it is largely unknown, driving awareness and adoption of sustainable practices.