Benefits of Biochar

We are holding a free event on the afternoon of the 24th of October at Severn Valley County Park to talk about the many benefits of biochar (we are focussing on soils and compost in particular) and demonstrate how it can be made on a small scale. We found funding recently to buy two types of kiln / stove for making biochar.

The first is a Kon Tiki Kiln which is essentially like an oversize steel firepit. Here’s the web site where they are sold: https://www.biochar.wales/about-3 . This is aimed at grounds keepers, hedge layers, small woodland managers, conservation managers, small holders and some farmers. We have three that can be loaned out. Adrian Cooper currently has one on loan and is busy making biochar for the event.

The second is a small rocket stove called a Forest TAWI stove. Here are the details: https://www.carbonfarmers.world/forest-tawi/ . This is aimed at outdoor community groups or individual gardeners (I have a similar model at home). It is designed to replace a gas stove or open fire. It has two large cooking surfaces and makes biochar on a continuous basis. This can then be used in compost or gardening where the biochar prevents nutrients from leaching away and also retains water and offers some level of drought resilience. Biochar is often sold mixed in compost. Like here: https://www.carbongold.com/

The Forest TAWI stove comes with a range of educational materials and is really designed for Forest Schools. My aims in purchasing this equipment was to help promote the use and production of biochar as a carbon store and soil enhancer, and to help educate people about the carbon cycle.

Jane Trethewey suggested the Parish network might be a good one to circulate this invitation to as many parishes will be considering how they can reduce their carbon footprint while improving climate resilience and the environment. If you think this is of relevance please do circulate this email or just the attached flyer. The Eventbrite link is: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/biochar-workshop-tickets-1009167024737