During the ‘Black Summer’ bushfire season in January 2020, a fire in Flinders Chase National Park on Kangaroo Island spread uncontrollably, causing immense devastation to over 210,000 hectares of land, including Kiland Ltd (ASX:KIL) plantations. The fire left behind approximately 4.5 million tonnes of fire-damaged wood, posing a significant risk of releasing greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. In response, Kiland Ltd engaged AAGIM to convert this waste wood into biochar and developing the world’s largest biochar initiative. The project will span 10 to 12 years and has the potential to remove a year’s worth of emissions from 390,000 cars.
By avoiding the combustion or natural decay of the wood, the project prevents the release of significant amounts of carbon dioxide and other harmful gases into the atmosphere. The conversion of fire-damaged wood into biochar not only addresses environmental concerns but also has the potential to enhance soil fertility and agricultural productivity. This sustainable initiative demonstrates the importance of carbon removal and offers an innovative solution to the environmental challenges posed by the devastating bushfire. By effectively managing and utilising the fire-damaged wood, AAGIM and Kiland Ltd make a significant contribution to environmental sustainability and combat climate change on a global scale.