HEREFORDSHIRE-based forestry and timber company Say it with Wood (SIWW) is hosting a biochar information event on 25 April.

As trees grow, they draw CO² from the air, and with careful management they can replace environmentally damaging products such as plastic, steel and concrete. They can also replace carbon-emitting fossil fuels to provide heat or energy. One of the best methods for carbon sequestration is using biochar to build soil carbon.

Put simply, biochar is biomass heated in the absence of oxygen to make charcoal. When charged with nutrients and used in the soil it becomes a perfect habitat for soil mycorrhizal fungi, which provide plants with essential nutrients in exchange for carbohydrates.

Aly May, partner at SIWW, explained: “We are very excited about biochar. Many of our customers care deeply about sustainability, and adding biochar as a product is a logical step. Using charcoal in soil firstly locks that carbon away for thousands of years. It regulates water and nutrients in the soil, but it’s mycorrhizas that do the magic. They have a symbiotic relationship with plants. Unlike other soil additives, it doesn’t break down and the effects get better over time.”

Say it with Wood is welcoming anyone wishing to learn more to attend the information day at its Herefordshire premises.

The day costs £20. For more information or to book a place on the day, email info@sayitwithwood.co.uk or call 07958 345 833.