Exploring the biochar supply chain to determine the potential for biochar production in KwaZulu-Natal.

Abstract

Biochar is a product that has many beneficial properties but there are several socio economic and financial challenges associated with its production. By studying a potential biochar supply chain, many of these challenges can be identified and solutions sought. The available literature was studied in order to analyse the biochar supply chain from biomass collection to end product usage. This included all the steps involved in the collection of biomass and the logistical implications before and after production. Furthermore, it looks at how the feedstock and production method impact end product quality and how this would impact the commercialisation of biochar. For the purpose of this study, empirical research was utilised with participants chosen via a judgment sampling method. All participants were selected on the basis of their expertise on the subject of biochar. All research done was qualitative in nature in order to gain a deeper insight into the subject and to open up avenues for future research. The possibility of using biochar as a potential means of waste management does exist, but there are many challenges that make the undertaking of such a task difficult. The consensus amongst the majority of participants is that while a project is possible, many considerations need to be taken into account beforehand in order to assess the viability of such a project. Unless a very specific feedstock and production method is used, the end product may be limited in its usage. Making a higher-grade biochar will have a lot more end uses and a lot more commercial application, but this may require substantial capital and a quality feedstock source would have to be secured. While the benefits of biochar may be many, implementation will be a challenging task and necessary capital and knowledge will be required to make such a project a success.