Reflecting on a transformative year: looking back, moving forward
June Newsletter | Read the full Global Biochar Industry Update
An update from IBI’s board chair:
June 30 marks the end of a remarkable year for IBI. A moment of transition, reflection, and renewed vision. It is a time to pause, review, and strategize. A time to look back with gratitude and forward with purpose.
This past year has been one of growth, not only in numbers, but in the quality of our connections, the depth of our commitment, and our collective ability to drive meaningful change. Together, we have celebrated tangible successes, built new alliances, and navigated challenges in a complex global landscape.
Across the IBI community, this moment invites each of us to reflect on our role, and on how we can continue contributing as active participants in a rapidly evolving ecosystem.
The pulse of progress
The momentum is undeniable. The biochar industry continues to break new ground, increasingly recognized as a key technology in carbon removal. In a thriving and competitive sector, one highlight stood out this year: NetZero, a biochar company active in Cameroon and Brazil, was awarded 1st Runner-Up Team in the prestigious XPRIZE Carbon Removal competition. Three other biochar organizations were also among the 20 finalists, an outstanding achievement for our global community. A powerful boost of hope and confidence: long-term offtake agreements for biochar carbon removal (BCR) are becoming a reality, helping to establish a market for physical biochar as well. Truly encouraging news!
New national initiatives are emerging, bringing fresh energy, ideas, and expertise to the table. The revitalization of the Africa Biochar Partnership is particularly significant, not just a sign of growing interest, but evidence of concrete expansion.
A clear vision and strategic direction
This year, IBI adopted its 2030 Strategic Plan and reaffirmed its mission:
To empower communities and inspire industries to integrate biochar-based solutions towards healthier ecosystems and economies worldwide.
Important steps were taken to strengthen governance: new policies were introduced, the Board is undergoing a renewal process, and Harn Wei Kua as Vice Chair was appointed. Sebastian Manhart and Mike Werner joined to amplify the voice of the private sector, an essential move in scaling industry leadership. More appointments are on the way.
Financially, IBI has never been stronger. Thanks to bold and effective management, we reduced projected expenditures by 10% and exceeded revenue forecasts by 37%, securing a position of solid financial health.
Education, outreach, and global presence
Our educational activities expanded and diversified this year, including the Biochar Academy, study tours, webinars, and online training sessions. Our network of educational partners is growing steadily.
IBI also extended its reach into new geographies: Italy, Japan, Colombia, and Kenya joined our initiatives, adding to ongoing efforts in NYS-USA, Thailand, Switzerland, and Pakistan. And we’re not stopping there: India, WA-USA, Wales (UK), and South Korea are on the horizon.
Shaping Standards and Industry Integration
We’ve begun the revision of the IBI Biochar Standards, the first ever published globally in 2014, and still a key reference for soil applications. As we look ahead, we’re also finalizing new value propositions for membership and exploring strategic partnerships in the sustainable palm oil and coffee sectors, where biochar has high potential for scaling. New industries and value chains are already in our radar.
These efforts will be supported through direct engagement, case studies and industry roadmaps showing how biochar and biochar carbon removal can contribute to net-zero goals and sustainability transitions, addressing both the “environmental” and “social” dimensions of ESG.
Looking ahead to 2026: celebrating 20 years of IBI
As we close this cycle, a new milestone begins to shine on the horizon: 2026 will mark IBI’s 20th anniversary. More than a celebration, this will be a moment to renew our commitment, refocus our identity, and envision the next 20 years of biochar, innovation, and global sustainability. Together.
Lucia Brusegan
Chair of the IBI Board
Upcoming in-person events
🇺🇸 Washington State Study Tour | August 11–15, 2025
Join IBI and Qualterra in Spokane, Washington (state) to explore how biochar is being used today—from gasification units to orchard trials. Hands-on, peer-to-peer, and packed with real-world insights.
🏴 Wales Study Tour | August 20–22, 2025
See how biochar fits into composting, pyrolysis, and land restoration in a setting full of innovation and energy. Includes expert talks, site visits, and hands-on demos.
🇮🇳 Biochar Academy India | October 3–11, 2025
Save the date for a one-of-a-kind week near Hyderabad, India. Hosted at Kanha Shanti Vanam, the Academy blends science, practice, and purpose—with a focus on land, carbon, and community.
The future of biochar is being created today. We hope you’ll be part of it.
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Whether you’re in industry, research, policy, or simply passionate about healing the land, I hope you’ll take a closer look at biochar. There’s a lot more to it than meets the eye.