Project Reignite: Turning Farm Waste to Climate Action

Project Reignite aims to address the environmental crisis caused by increasing agricultural waste biomass in India. Traditionally, farmers burn agricultural waste in fields or allow it to decompose, both practices contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and polluting air, water, and soil. This project offers a practical solution by empowering smallholder farmers to convert their agricultural waste into biochar through flame curtain pyrolysis in steel-shield soil pits.   The process involves collecting and drying waste biomass, pyrolyzing it in a steel-shield soil pit, and then mixing the resulting biochar with manure for subsurface soil application. This prevents GHG emissions from burning and decomposition and sequesters carbon in the soil for potentially centuries.   Beyond environmental benefits, the project contributes significantly to social and community well-being. By transforming waste into biochar, it enhances soil fertility, leading to increased agricultural yields and improved food security. It aims to uplift small and marginalized communities, including women, by improving community health through reduced air pollution and increasing income opportunities. The project actively engages local stakeholders through consultations and ongoing communication channels.