Beyond the Bean: Fairtrade’s Biochar Innovation for Sustainable Coffee Production

In a groundbreaking initiative, coffee producers recently visited a biochar production unit in Nagpur to explore transformative biochar production methods. Supported by FT Switzerland and NAPP, the visit aimed to introduce sustainable practices that could repurpose agricultural waste into biochar—a soil-enhancing, carbon-sequestering resource with substantial benefits for both the environment and agricultural productivity.

Participants were welcomed at Sanjivani Agro Machinery, where they were introduced to three innovative biochar production techniques: batch manufacturing, continuous production, and the traditional Kon-Tiki kiln method. Through these demonstrations, coffee producers were able to witness the range of machinery options available to suit different production capacities and budgets, providing them with a practical understanding of each method’s unique advantages.

The hands-on demonstrations showcased how agricultural waste—such as coconut shells, bamboo, coffee husks, and dried plant materials—could be transformed into biochar. Each method of biochar production emphasized waste minimization and recycling, demonstrating how coffee farmers could turn otherwise discarded materials into valuable resources that contribute to climate change mitigation by sequestering carbon.

One of the highlights of the visit was learning how biochar applications can translate into carbon credits, opening up additional income opportunities for farmers. Beyond its financial benefits, biochar also offers significant agricultural advantages: when mixed with compost, it enhances soil fertility and improves crop yields. This dual impact of biochar as both a climate solution and a soil amendment provided participants with insights into sustainable farming practices that benefit both people and the planet.

Participants left the event inspired and equipped with knowledge on biochar production’s potential. “This exposure visit broadened our understanding of sustainable farming,” shared Jacob Jose from the Sahyadri Organic Small Farmers Consortium. The farmers now see biochar not just as a soil amendment but as a pathway to environmental stewardship and climate resilience. The visit reinforced their commitment to adopting sustainable practices on their farms.

Following the visit, the coffee producers expressed interest in implementing biochar production at the cooperative level and are considering purchasing machinery suited to their specific needs. Fairtrade NAPP plans to conduct further follow-up sessions to support farmers as they integrate biochar production into their operations, fostering long-term sustainability and economic growth.