Policy Brief on Wood Vinegar
This policy brief by the Carbon Removal India Alliance (CRIA) highlights the transformative potential of wood vinegar, a co-product of biochar production via slow pyrolysis. While not a direct carbon removal agent, wood vinegar plays a critical enabling role by improving the financial viability of biochar projects and delivering agricultural co-benefits such as enhanced soil health, reduced chemical input dependency, and increased crop yields.
Key insights include:
Production potential: 0.46 million tons annually from just 1% of surplus biomass.
Market value: Estimated at INR 58–92 billion (~USD 0.6–1 billion).
Carbon removal support: Makes biochar projects more scalable and economically viable.
Cross-sectoral impact: Benefits farmers, biochar producers, corporations, and government initiatives.
Policy recommendations: Include regulatory recognition, R&D support, integration with agri-schemes, and market development incentives.
Wood vinegar offers India a unique opportunity to advance climate goals, boost rural development, and lead globally in integrated carbon removal and sustainable agriculture strategies.