The country’s inaugural biochar plant, located in Neri, Hamirpur district of Himachal Pradesh, aims to support environmental preservation and provide livelihood opportunities for the local community. A tripartite agreement was inked last year involving Dr Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, the Forest Department, and ProClime to establish two biochar plants in the region. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu highlighted the project’s potential to create jobs, promote sustainable forest management, and help the state earn carbon credits.
The initiative involves purchasing biomass at Rs 2.50 per kg with additional incentives for quality maintenance, focusing on producing biochar from various plant-based resources. Over a decade, the project anticipates generating around 28,800 carbon credits, supporting Himachal Pradesh’s environmental initiatives. The HIM Evergreen Integrated Climate-Smart Agriculture and Agro-forestry Programme will cover 50,000 hectares, managing 13.5 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions and enhancing soil health and biodiversity.
The program will integrate trees into farming systems, enhance farm resilience, and offer long-term economic prospects for farming communities. It will also leverage GIS, remote sensing, and digital data collection aligned with international carbon market standards. Former UNEP Executive Director Erik Solheim commended the state government’s efforts in showcasing measures to mitigate carbon emissions.
