A new testing standard for biochar is now public. USBI and ASABE released the ANSI ASABE USBI S668 Methods for Measurement and Testing of Biochar. It sets a clear baseline for how we measure biochar properties. It also adapts existing laboratory methods so they match biochar’s unique behaviour.

Why this matters

• Better data. Stronger environmental models and more reliable carbon accounting.
• Clearer procurement. Users in agriculture, construction, stormwater, and remediation gain a consistent reference for specifications.
• Cleaner communication. Producers, buyers, researchers, and regulators align around one set of expectations.
• Stronger certification. Registries and crediting programs get a stable testing base.

What this does not solve

• Adoption will take time, especially outside the US.
• Small producers still need support to run or access these tests.
• Certification schemes must align with S668 before producers feel the benefit.
• Testing alone does not guarantee quality, record keeping, or traceability.

What you can do now

• Review which S668 parameters match your current lab reports.
• Update procurement language to include S668 references.
• Ask your lab about their readiness to run S668 aligned methods.
• Track how registries integrate the standard into verification requirements.

USBI has made the standard free for three years. This reduces barriers for new producers and provides space for the entire sector to transition.
Download here: https://asabe.org/linkclick.aspx?fileticket=TiMQ-xS3KFg%3d&portalid=0