Great River Greening, a St. Paul nonprofit organization, has introduced a new wood-burning tool that aims to fight climate change by producing biochar instead of releasing excessive carbon dioxide and ash into the atmosphere. Biochar is a charcoal-like substance that can be used to fortify soil and lock in carbon, making it a more environmentally friendly alternative to open-pile burns.
The organization recently demonstrated the use of their new “Big Box Kiln” at Lake Elmo Park Reserve in Minnesota. The process involves burning wood and biomass in a kiln, rather than an open pile, to create biochar. This method helps to sequester carbon in the ground, rather than releasing it into the air.
Great River Greening currently has three wood-burning kilns available and is working with local environmental groups, counties, and cities to promote the use of biochar. While they do not currently have enough kilns to rent out to individuals, they hope to expand their availability in the future. The organization is also working with farmers to explore how biochar can be integrated into agricultural practices to help improve soil health.
The development of biochar kilns was funded by CenterPoint Energy, the Minnesota Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund, and small family foundations. This innovative approach to managing wood waste and reducing carbon emissions has the potential to have a positive impact on the environment and help sustain green spaces for future generations.
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