Description

Agro CCS is a biochar project located in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India, designed to sustainably manage agricultural residues such as rice husk and rice straw. Through advanced pyrolysis technology featuring syngas purification, heat recovery, and automated controls, Agro CCS produces biochar while reducing harmful emissions associated with open-field burning. The resulting biochar is distributed to farmers to improve soil quality, providing an affordable and sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers.

 

Application

The biochar produced is mixed with compost and distributed to farmers at subsidized rates to support improved soil health and agricultural productivity. The project focuses on demonstrating biochar’s benefits through carefully monitored application methods, including furrow application and compost enrichment, tailored to local conditions.

 

Feedstock

The feedstock consists of rice husks and rice straw, which are agricultural residues sourced from local rice mills and farms that would otherwise be burned in open fields.

 

Co-benefits

 

• Improved Air Quality and Health
  By preventing the open burning of rice husks and straw, the project reduces particulate matter pollution (PM2.5), improving air quality and mitigating associated health risks for local communities.
  
  
• Enhanced Food Security
  Biochar application improves soil fertility, increases water retention, and enhances crop yields, strengthening food security for smallholder farmers.
  
  
• Climate Adaptation and Resilience
  Supports farmers in adapting to climate challenges by improving soil structure, enabling better crop resilience against drought and extreme weather.
  
  
• Economic Development
  By subsidizing biochar, the project lowers input costs for farmers and enhances their yields, boosting economic stability for rural agricultural communities.
  
  
• Sustainable Agricultural Practices
  Promotes the use of biochar as a natural soil amendment, reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers and supporting long-term sustainable farming practices.

 

Emissions avoidance

Agro CCS avoids significant emissions by preventing the open burning of rice husks and straw, which would otherwise release PM2.5, CO2, and other harmful pollutants. This process contributes to cleaner air and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

Additionality

In the absence of Agro CCS, rice husks and straw would continue to be burned in open fields, contributing to severe air pollution and environmental degradation. This project introduces a viable solution for managing agricultural residues while providing tangible benefits to farmers and the surrounding environment.