Why Biochar

What is Biochar?

Biochar is a stable, carbon-rich material produced by heating biomass in low-oxygen conditions (a process known as pyrolysis). When produced and applied responsibly, biochar can contribute to soil improvement and long-term carbon storage.

Global Pumpkiln Day focuses on small-scale and community-level biochar production. At this scale, the process remains visible, understandable, and locally managed.

Biochar is not a universal solution, but a practical tool that can support regenerative land stewardship when used appropriately.

Soil Health

Healthy soils are the foundation of resilient ecosystems and food systems.

When integrated thoughtfully, biochar can:

• Improve soil structure

• Increase water retention

• Enhance nutrient holding capacity

• Support beneficial soil organisms

Biochar works best when combined with compost, manure, or other organic inputs. It complements good soil management practices rather than replacing them.

Carbon Stability

Biochar transforms plant-based carbon into a more stable form that can remain in soils for decades or longer.

At smallholder scale, biochar demonstrates how carbon stewardship can be practiced locally and tangibly. While small-scale production alone does not solve climate change, it represents a practical contribution grounded in land care.

Resourcefulness and Seasonal Practice

Producing biochar from locally available biomass encourages:

• Thoughtful use of organic residues

• Reduced waste

• Practical knowledge exchange

• Awareness of seasonal cycles

The use of pumpkins near Halloween reflects this principle of repurposing — transforming a seasonal symbol into a material that supports soil health.

Smallholder and Community Scale

Global Pumpkiln Day emphasises smallholder and community-scale production because it:

• Keeps responsibility local

• Makes safety and environmental awareness visible

• Encourages learning through practice

• Strengthens community resilience

Scale is not the goal. Understanding, responsibility, and stewardship are.