Advancing Biochar and Biofertilizer Standards: CBEN’s Regional Working Group Kicks Off Policy Discourses

The CBEN Regional Standards and Testing Capacity Working Group (WG) has embarked on a crucial journey to strengthen biochar and biofertilizer standards across the region. Their mission: to conduct policy mapping and analysis on biochar and biofertilizer standards, covering both processes and products, while also assessing the regional testing capacity of producers and consumers. Ultimately, their efforts will contribute to a business environment conducive to investment, entrepreneurship, and meaningful change in the biochar sector.

The discussions focused on key policy development areas, particularly artisanal production and nutrient recovery. Led by Bella, CBEN Programs Manager, the group examined the significance of policies surrounding biochar-related equipment, including tariffs and manufacturing regulations. Establishing clear policies in this area is considered a foundational step in standardizing biochar production. Joy Nyango’r, a consultant and co-founder of Eco-Restore based in Cape Town South Africa suggested that success indicators should be defined and key stakeholders identified to ensure a comprehensive approach. The group also debated merging their objectives into a broader policy and standards working group to create a unified framework and include the role of additional stakeholders in shaping nutrient recovery policies.

A significant portion of the discussion revolved around the necessity of biochar standards in Kenya and the various production methods and regulatory frameworks that could shape these standards while emphasizing the need for strong African representation in international standards development. One of the pressing challenges identified was the need for a unified communication strategy to promote biochar among farmers. Misinformation and lack of trust have hindered widespread adoption, making it critical to rebuild credibility through clear and consistent 

Looking ahead, the group will focus on two projects in the next 4 months leading up to the June event. First, a seminar focused on pyrolysis technology to deepen technical knowledge within the group, led by Chloe and Joy, Co-founders of Eco-Restore. Second, a drafted 'current understanding' of organic fertilizer standards in relation to biochar, with a target completion date set for the end of June, led by Sol a PhD candidate at ICRAF/UC Berkeley/Cornell. This Working Group is off to a promising start, setting the stage for impactful policy development in the biochar and biofertilizer sectors. As the team continues to refine its objectives, engage key stakeholders, and address regional and international policy gaps, its work is poised to create a more structured and investment-friendly environment for biochar adoption. 

By Erick O. Abala

Head of Communications -CBEN