The production and application of biochar is a mature technology pathway for the removal and long-term storage of CO₂ from the atmosphere. The combined material and energetic use of biomass results in several additional benefits for producers and users, such as the decoupling of renewable energy and positive soil effects when applied to agricultural soils. 

This study evaluates the production and use of biochar by means of slow pyrolysis, taking into account the economic context and the socio-technical barriers to market diffusion. The production of biochar from forest residues, straw and sewage sludge is evaluated using the annuity method in the current legal and economic context. Based on a focus group with different actors from the biochar nexus, socio-technical drivers and barriers are discussed. The results show that the economics for biochar projects are not clearly positive and existing barriers in the regulatory framework impede the construction of new plants. Policy recommendations for the expected market ramp-up phase include the creation of a stable economic and legal framework for biochar projects that favors biomass with the least competition for use. 

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