Biochar Chile’s European tour has been an exceptional opportunity for knowledge exchange and strengthening international links. Dr. Cristina Segura actively participated in the Biochar Study Tour in Italy, an event organized by the International Biochar Initiative and the Associazione Italiana Biochar (ICHAR), which has provided access to key innovations and new opportunities in the field of biochar.
During the first day of this phase of the tour, we visited the RE-CORD Research Center, where we got an up-close look at the Pyrolysis and Hydrothermal Carbonization Pilot Plants. In addition, we explored a number of innovative projects that seek to optimize the application of biochar in different sectors.
In the afternoon, we visited the Grevepesa Oil Mill, where we witnessed live the Yanmar Farm Circular Solution, a technology that transforms agricultural biomass into electricity, heat and biochar through a gasification system.
The second day focused on the application of biochar in the field. We visited trials in the organic vineyards of Felsina Farm and Badia A Coltibuono, where studies are being conducted to improve soil quality with biochar, led by researchers from the Bioeconomy Institute (CNR-IBE). These trials reinforce the value of biochar in regenerative agriculture and soil conservation.
This third week of our European tour has been an enriching experience, giving us the opportunity to strengthen international relationships with biochar experts and share the global challenges facing the industry. We return with new learnings and renewed motivation to continue developing the use of biochar in Chile, convinced of its enormous potential for atmospheric carbon removal and its key role in the fight against climate change.