Sliced: Biomass Storage - Gordian Knot Strategies

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As the world seeks to combat climate change, carbon dioxide removal (CDR) has gained significant attention. Achieving net-zero pathways by 2050 could require removing six to ten gigatonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2) annually, making CDR essential. While much of the focus has been on methods like biochar, direct air capture (DAC), and carbon capture and storage (CCS), biomass storage offers a less-discussed yet promising approach to long-term carbon sequestration.

Biomass storage leverages the natural carbon-absorbing ability of plants. Through photosynthesis, trees and plants capture CO2, storing it in their biomass. When this biomass is collected and stored in specialized facilities or underwater, the embedded carbon is sequestered, preventing its release back into the atmosphere. Terrestrial storage involves storing biomass in structures like wood vaults or underground pits, while marine storage sinks biomass in deep ocean waters, where cold, high-pressure environments slow decomposition and promote long-term storage.

The carbon market is beginning to recognize the value of biomass-based carbon removal solutions. The first quarter of 2025 saw a dramatic 122% increase in contracted CDR credits compared to Q1 2024, with biomass methods like bio-oil sequestration, biochar, and BECCS (Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage) dominating purchases. Charm Industrial, Exomad Green, Varaha, Inherit Carbon Solutions, and The Carbon Removers have emerged as key players, contributing to roughly 80% of CDR credits issued. Puro.earth has also established a 100-year terrestrial biomass storage standard, aiming to reduce transaction costs and accelerate market growth.

One notable project in the biomass storage landscape is Mast Reforestation’s Wood Preserve MT1 in Central Montana. This initiative combines biomass burial with reforestation, offering an estimated 30,000 tonnes of CO2 credits available for presale. By burying dead trees destroyed by the 2021 Poverty Flats Fire in oxygen-limited chambers, Mast prevents carbon release while simultaneously restoring 900 acres of climate-resilient forest. This approach addresses wildfire risks, promotes biodiversity, and secures long-term carbon sequestration through a 100-year easement with rigorous monitoring standards.

Biomass storage could play a vital role in meeting the growing demand for carbon credits. Projects must undergo rigorous lifecycle analysis to quantify the net amount of carbon sequestered and require third-party verification. By converting biomass waste into an asset through carbon credits, these projects create economic incentives for the sustainable management of organic residuals. Furthermore, the development of a biomass storage credit ecosystem is underway, with market players working to standardize methodologies and verification processes, enhancing transparency and scalability.

Despite its potential, biomass storage faces significant hurdles. Logistical challenges, such as the collection, transportation, and storage of diverse biomass sources, are considerable. The high costs of establishing and maintaining storage facilities, coupled with environmental concerns about deforestation and biodiversity loss, also pose barriers. Marine storage, although promising, raises concerns about its potential impact on marine ecosystems and scalability. More research and standardized protocols for monitoring and verifying carbon credits are needed to overcome these challenges. Additionally, ensuring that biomass storage projects do not compete with food production or lead to unintended ecological consequences will be critical for their long-term success.

Looking ahead, the future of biomass storage as a carbon removal strategy appears promising but will require concerted efforts to scale up effectively. Advances in technology, such as automated systems for monitoring and managing storage conditions, could reduce operational costs and improve the efficiency of biomass storage projects. Moreover, as governments and corporations increasingly commit to net-zero targets, the demand for scalable, cost-effective carbon sequestration methods like biomass storage is likely to grow. Partnerships between private sector leaders and research institutions could accelerate the development of new storage techniques and enhance our understanding of biomass’s long-term carbon sequestration potential.

While there is no single perfect solution to climate change, biomass storage offers a promising method for long-term carbon sequestration. Its potential benefits, including reducing wildfire risks and creating economic opportunities, make it a valuable addition to the array of CDR strategies. With ongoing advancements, market growth, and supportive policies, biomass storage could become a viable large-scale solution, contributing to global climate mitigation efforts. By addressing the current challenges and leveraging the growing interest from both the private and public sectors, biomass storage could play a part in achieving our collective climate goals and securing a more sustainable future.

This is a modified version of our Indaba essay titled “Our Take: Biomass Storage – An Innovative Solution for Carbon Dioxide Removal.”

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