3N organized a conference in Lingen, attended by farmers in southern Emsland to explore the potential of pyrolysis plants. These plants could supply local heating networks with waste heat, improve sandy soils with biochar, and generate carbon sink certificates.
The conference attracted a significant number of participants from various sectors (65 on site + 105 online), reflecting the great interest in this technology. Pyrolysis plants, which produce biochar, are seen as a quick to implement carbon capture and storage technology.
Despite the high costs of biochar limiting its current uses, the conference presented a number of newly constructed plants and ongoing efforts to certify biochar. As the technology becomes more economically viable, it is expected to play an increasingly important role in achieving climate targets. The conference highlighted the potential of pyrolysis plants and biochar in contributing to sustainable local heating solutions and soil improvement.