Biochar in the Netherlands - CO₂ removal & circular applications

Biochar can store CO₂ for long periods and connects to agriculture, construction and industry. Recent studies show that actual use in the Netherlands is still limited. Below we explain what biochar is, where it fits, and what needs to be in place for scale-up.

What is biochar?

Biochar is a carbon-rich solid produced when organic material—such as crop residues, wood or manure—is heated under low-oxygen conditions (pyrolysis). Much of the carbon remains stored in a stable solid instead of returning to the atmosphere as CO₂. In theory, biochar can hold that carbon for centuries.

Where can it be used?

• Agriculture: improves soil structure and water retention; potential yield benefits.
• Construction: tested as a filler in asphalt and concrete, embedding carbon in materials.
• Industry: can partially replace fossil coal in some processes (e.g., steelmaking).
• Biogas & manure: use in digesters; co-products (pyrolysis oil, syngas) influence economics.

What needs to be in place?

• Credible certification: robust methods to measure and verify stored CO₂ so certificates carry value.
• Policy & incentives: EU and national frameworks to make adoption attractive and predictable.
• Sustainable feedstocks: clean biomass to avoid contaminants (e.g., heavy metals/PAHs) and unwanted impacts.

Ravebo & biochar

At Ravebo we deliver proven emission-reduction solutions every day, such as advanced wet scrubber systems. These help companies reduce harmful emissions today and comply with regulations. In parallel, we closely monitor innovations like biochar to advise clients with a level head and a future-proof view.

Transparency: Insights based on CE Delft (2025). Biochar is technically promising but not yet widely feasible in the Netherlands.