Imagine a world where agricultural waste and sewage sludge are transformed into tools for combating climate change. This is no longer a futuristic vision but a present-day reality as startups harness the potential of biomass carbon removal and storage (BiCRS) to sequester carbon and sell carbon credits to eco-conscious companies.
BiCRS technology is gaining traction globally, offering a promising method for achieving net-zero emissions by locking carbon dioxide underground. As plants grow, they absorb carbon, which is typically released when they decompose. BiCRS interrupts this cycle, capturing and storing carbon to prevent atmospheric emissions.
In Europe, legislation is paving the way for a carbon removal certification framework to be implemented by 2028, while countries like Japan and Canada explore scaling these technologies. In the U.S., a growing number of companies, as highlighted in a February 2025 report, are leading efforts to transform biomass into carbon storage solutions.
Innovative Approaches to Biomass Carbon Removal
Corigin Solutions: Utilizing Almond Shells
Corigin Solutions, based in California, collects agricultural waste, turning it from a carbon source to a carbon sink. The region produces about 3.8 billion pounds of almond shells annually, which Corigin processes into biochar and bio-oil via pyrolysis. This method not only improves soil health but also reduces the need for fertilizers.
Despite using only a fraction of available almond shells, Corigin aims to expand to other agricultural wastes. Although bio-oil removal is costly, the company supports local farmers and contributes to sustainability in Merced.
Charm Industrial: Repurposing Oil Wells
Charm Industrial is repurposing abandoned oil wells to store bio-oil created from biomass residues like wildfire mitigation debris. Their mobile pyrolyzers facilitate on-site processing, minimizing biomass transport costs. To date, Charm has sequestered almost 12,000 tons of CO2, with support from major companies and a significant $100 million funding boost.
Graphyte: A Direct Storage Solution
Graphyte in Arkansas employs a straightforward method by compressing and sealing biomass into blocks for underground storage. This process, devoid of chemical transformations, is cost-effective and adaptable to various feedstocks. Graphyte is expanding rapidly, with plans to remove 50,000 tons of CO2 by 2026.
Vaulted Deep: Safeguarding Waste Emissions
Vaulted Deep addresses the disposal of organic waste by injecting it deep underground. Their energy-efficient methods process 65,000 tons of biosolids annually, and a partnership with Microsoft aims to sequester 5 million tons of CO2 over 12 years.
The company utilizes old salt caverns for storage, providing a safe disposal solution for cities and farmers. Vaulted has already sequestered over 32,000 tons of CO2.
BiCRS: Challenges and Opportunities
While BiCRS shows promise, scaling these technologies faces hurdles, including policy support and standardization for carbon credit verification. The potential for competition over biomass resources poses additional challenges in achieving net-zero goals.
Despite these obstacles, BiCRS offers innovative pathways for carbon removal, crucial for offsetting emissions in hard-to-decarbonize sectors. As the sector matures, ensuring responsible deployment and avoiding greenwashing will be vital for its success.
Original Story at www.wri.org