Revision to VM0044: Methodology for Biochar Utilization in Soil and Non-soil Applications

VM0044, v1.1 applies to projects that convert waste biomass into biochar at new production facilities. Biochar produced can be utilized in soil and non-soil applications. The revision will likely include updates to the following:

• expand eligibility for existing biochar production facilities;
• procedures for demonstrating high-technology facilities, including consideration for construction or embodied emissions;
• the eligibility of feedstocks, including invasive species and other new (not purpose-grown) feedstocks;
• the monitoring approach for measuring key parameters, including H: Corg ratio of biochar and moisture content;
• procedures for calculating feedstock transport emissions;
• consideration for safe storage and transport of biochar;
• and other improvements identified throughout the development process.

Verra is leading the development of the revision, as per Section 2.1.1(2) of the VCS Methodology Development and Review Process, v4.3 (PDF). Verra released a Request For Proposal (PDF) to find a qualified methodology developer and selected Canadian Biomass Energy Ltd (external). The revision is currently at “Step 3: Draft Methodology Development” of the VCS Methodology Development and Review Process, v4.3 (PDF).

Stakeholders interested in collaborating during methodology development or developing projects that this methodology might enable are encouraged to contact methodologies@verra.org. Please include the Methodology Development ID# M0226 in the subject line.