Bamboo and Biochar Value Chain Creation through Stakeholder Synergy

October 24, 2024

Phra Matuli 1 (พระมาตุลี 1), 2nd Floor

Co-organizers:

Introduction

Bamboo and biochar offer considerable promise for promoting sustainability due to their renewable and eco-friendly characteristics. Bamboo, a fast-growing, versatile plant, is being utilized in various innovative ways, including its use in biocomposites, bioenergy, and biochar. The sustainability of bamboo lies in its ability to regenerate quickly, making it an ideal alternative to traditional wood in construction, energy, and other industries. When processed into biochar, bamboo becomes an effective tool for carbon sequestration, capturing carbon that would otherwise be released into the atmosphere.

In Thailand, the value chain analysis of bamboo and biochar shows significant potential, from production using bamboo and other organic materials to distribution and application in agriculture, environmental management, and other sectors. A crucial component of biochar production is the biochar kiln, a specialized furnace where organic material such as bamboo is thermally decomposed under limited oxygen conditions. This process, known as pyrolysis, transforms bamboo into biochar while capturing carbon in a stable form.  Advancements in biochar kiln technology are improving production efficiency and reducing emissions during the process, making it a key innovation in biochar’s development.

Applying biochar to soil improves fertility and water retention, contributing to more sustainable agricultural practices. Moreover, biochar is gaining attention for its role in addressing air pollution, particularly in reducing PM2.5 levels. Additionally, bamboo and biochar are gaining traction in carbon credit markets. By capturing and storing carbon, biochar projects can generate carbon credits that companies or governments can purchase to offset their emissions. This creates an economic incentive for both the production of biochar and the cultivation of bamboo, as they not only support environmental goals but also offer financial rewards through carbon trading mechanisms. The expanding use of bamboo and biochar underscores their potential to provide both environmental and economic benefits, making them essential components in the movement toward sustainability.

Schedule

Moderators: Dr. Sirikarn Wisetsuwannaphum and Dr. Kullachate Muangnapoh, National Metal and Materials Technology Center, Thailand

11:00 – 11:30 Policies for Strengthening Thailand’s biomass Use
Mr. Park  Chalermsak
Scientist, Professional Level, Energy Research Bureau, Department of Alternative Energy Development and Efficiency, Ministry of Energy, Thailand
11:30 – 12:00 Opportunities from Bamboo, Biomass and Biochar
Dr. Artite Pattanapongchai
Director of Digital Industry Development Division, Department of Industrial Promotion, Ministry of Industry, Thailand
12:00 – 13:00 Lunch
13:00 – 13:30 Roles of Biomass and Biochar in Water-Energy-Environment-Food NEXUS
Professor Ruey-An Doong
Institute of Analytical and Environmental Sciences, National Tsing Hua University, Taiwan
13:30 – 14:15 Bamboo and Biochar from Bamboo, New Challenges for Thailand’s Investors
Mr. Sapol Boonsermsuk
Expert in researching forest products, Royal Forest Department
Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, Thailand
14:15 – 14:45 Bamboo Value Chain: Biocomposites, Bioenergy or Biochar?
Dr. Warawut Suphamitmongkol
Kasetsart Agricultural and Agro-Industrial Product Improvement Institute, Kasetsart University, Thailand
14:45 – 15:15 Biochar for Resillient and Sustainable Infrastructure Development
Associate Professor Apiniti Jotisangkasa
Faculty of Engineering, Kasetsart University, Thailand
15:15 – 15:45 Thermochemical Conversion of Waste/Biomass
Associate Professor Chinnathan Areeprasert
Director of The Energy and Environmental Engineering Center, Faculty of Engineering, Kasetsart University, Thailand
15:45 – 16:15 Carbon credits from Community forests in Thailand
Dr. Thanapong Duangmanee
Mae Fah Luang Foundation, Thailand
16:15 – 17:30 Brainstorming session: Pain Points
Moderator: Dr. Chanchana Thanachayanont, National Metal and Materials Technology Center, Thailand

  • Mr. Natee Sithiprasasana, Chairman of Renewable Energy Industry Club under The Federation of Thai Industries. Management Director of Surat Green Group, Thailand
  • Mr. Thammanoon Phetsri, PolySource Co., Ltd., Thailand
  • Mr. Khomchalat Thongting, Wong Phai Co., Ltd.
  • Dr. Kittisak Chotekitipat, Bamboo Reform Farm, Thailand
  • Dr. Sakprayut Sinthupinyo, Siam Research and Innovation Co., Ltd., The Siam Cement PCL, Thailand (SCG) (TBC)