This community-led biochar project is one of the world’s largest, issuing ~15,000 tCO₂e per month with nearly 100,000 tCO₂e already delivered. 

Utilising a sustainable source as feedstock is a critical component for effective and credible biochar projects. afterThe project currently draws on two primary feedstocks: Prosopis Juliflora and Cotton Stalk. The increasing spread of the invasive alien species Prosopis juliflora (locally known as ganda bavar) is an invasive alien species that has spread extensively across the Banni grasslands, outcompeting the indigenous grass species and significantly disrupting local biodiversity.  By sourcing this species as a biochar feedstock, the project converts an ecological liability into a productive input, while directly supporting grassland restoration efforts.

The second primary source of feedstock derives from Cotton Stalk. This consists of the residual stem of the cotton plant that is left on the farmers’ fields post the harvest of cotton balls. As part of routine agricultural practice, the farmers excavate these cotton stalks from their farms to clear their lands ahead of the next sowing cycle. Under the project scenario, cotton stalks are instead processed into biochar, enabling the fixed carbon stored present in the cotton stalk to be conserved and stored, leading to sequestration of 715 kg CO₂e per ton of cotton stalk.

Beyond carbon sequestration, the project delivers significant environmental and social co-benefits. It contributes to the restoration of degraded, invasive-infested grasslands, reduces harmful crop burning practices, and promotes the use of biochar as a soil amendment. This improves soil health by enhancing pH balance, water retention, and nutrient availability, supporting more resilient and productive agriculture.