Biochar: taking commercial British apple production to Net Zero

Resource explained

This is a recording of a webinar which was part of the Agroecology at Scale programme within the Ocado–Soil Association Farm to Fork partnership. The webinar built on an Innovate UK–funded feasibility study which brought together growers, packers, engineers, academics, agronomists and carbon specialists to examine how innovation might help UK apple growers move towards net zero. The focus was on a major challenge for commercial top fruit producers; what to do with the substantial volume of woody biomass at the end of an orchard’s life, and whether turning this material into biochar via pyrolysis can form a credible, climate‑positive pathway for UK apple production. The webinar was chaired by Anne Rees, Head of Horticulture at the Soil Association with Ali Capper, Executive Chair of British Apples & Pears Ltd and Rob Collins (fruit industry professional and co-founder of Cobblers Farm in Worcestershire).

Findings & recommendations

• End-of-life biomass from orchards is typically managed by grubbing and burning, releasing large amounts of carbon.
• Mobile pyrolysis in-orchard proved logistically difficult and wastes valuable heat; fixed pyrolysis plants near heat users (e.g. greenhouses) are more viable.
• Root balls are unsuitable for pyrolysis due to soil and stones – an Italian machine was found which can mulch root balls so material can be left and spread in the orchard.
• Orchard wood can produce good quality biochar, but requires clean, consistent, relatively dry feedstock.
• Life Cycle Assessment of British Gala apples shows:
  • Packaging is the major hotspot (~62% of Scope 3 emissions).
  • Plant protection and fertilisers ~15%; machinery ~6.6%.
  • Cold storage energy is significant; fertiliser application emissions are relatively small.
• British Apples & Pears Ltd is prioritising engagement with retailers on lower-impact packaging rather than focusing solely on on-farm changes.
• The project also established a small dose-response biochar trial in a new orchard, but longer-term evidence is needed, especially regarding nutrient lock-up risks.
• Biochar production remains relatively costly. The question of whether there is a business model and if it can be profitable is yet to be answered.
• Rob Collins is working to establish a UK biochar trade association to help develop standards, represent the sector, and connect growers with local outlets to reduce transport emissions.

Associated Agricology Partner Organisation(s):