At the request of the American Biochar Institute (ABI), GECA is leading the committee developing the Safe Use Standard for End Use of Biochar.
Supported by the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE), the committee is developing the document for consideration as an ASTM standard.
The committee brings together stakeholders representing different sectors and stages of the biochar industry’s value chain. Their involvement ensures that the standard reflects a broad range of technical knowledge, operational realities, end-use requirements, and perspectives from across the industry.
The committee is establishing a science-based framework for evaluating potential contaminants in biochar and determining how biochar can be used safely in different applications. The standard is intended to ensure that potential contaminants and exposure pathways are properly assessed and managed for each intended use.
The committee’s work focuses on:
- identifying contaminants that may be present in biochar;
- evaluating potential exposure pathways associated with different uses;
- establishing conditions for the safe use of biochar in specific applications;
- supporting traceability and transparency throughout the value chain; and
- protecting human health, soil, water, and ecosystems.
As committee leader, GECA brings together this diverse expertise and stakeholder input to develop a credible, practical, and scientifically grounded standard.
This work is an important step toward providing biochar producers, users, regulators, and other stakeholders with clear guidance on where and how biochar can be used safely.
GECA is proud to work with ABI, ASABE, and the broader biochar community to support the responsible and sustainable development of the North American biochar industry.
