Volcafe, a Swiss green coffee trader, and Cotierra, a biocharBiochar is a carbon-rich material created from biomass decomposition in low-oxygen conditions. It has important applications in environmental remediation, soil improvement, agriculture, carbon sequestration, energy storage, and sustainable materials, promoting efficiency and reducing waste in various contexts while addressing climate change challenges. More solutions provider, have jointly issued biochar-based carbon removal credits in Colombia. This development marks the first instance of such credits being issued under an external carbon standard within Colombian coffee value chains, based on publicly available information.

The initiative centers on utilizing biochar, a charcoal-like substance, to sequester carbon while enhancing soil health. Biochar’s role extends beyond carbon sequestration, contributing to the resilience of coffee producers.

Cotierra’s approach focuses on measurable carbon removal and soil restoration, aiming to mitigate climate risks and promote sustainable farming. Carcafe, Volcafe’s Colombian entity, implemented the project, utilizing Cotierra’s decentralized biochar methodology. Participating farmers, part of the Volcafe Way farmer support program, produced biochar from on-farm biomassBiomass is a complex biological organic or non-organic solid product derived from living or recently living organism and available naturally. Various types of wastes such as animal manure, waste paper, sludge and many industrial wastes are also treated as biomass because like natural biomass these More, including coffee tree renovation byproducts and agroforestry system maintenance materials.

The application of biochar to coffee fields improves soil health, enhances fertilizer efficiency, and increases crop yields. Additionally, it improves water use efficiency and composting processes, contributing to climate resilience and residue management. The carbon removal credits generated are sold on the voluntary carbon market, providing financial incentives for farmer adoption.

‘I am incredibly proud of the Carcafe team for their leadership in this project,’ said Sebastián Pinzón, General Manager of Carcafe, Volcafe’s entity in Colombia. ‘Their dedication and innovation have been instrumental in demonstrating the tangible benefits of biochar for coffee producers.’

Thomas Käslin, CEO of Cotierra, added, ‘We’re enthusiastic to team up with forward-thinking coffee leaders like Volcafe. Together, we’re making great strides in decarbonising agricultural supply chains across the tropics. This partnership shows how sustainable practices and carbon finance can bring about positive changes for the environment and create more resilient supply chains.’

Volcafe, established in 1851, specializes in green coffee procurement, processing, and distribution. Cotierra focuses on decarbonizing agricultural supply chains through biochar solutions, aiming to promote regenerative agriculture and a low-carbon future.

PRESS RELEASE: Partnership marks pioneering advance for Colombian coffee farmers