ABOUT THIS EPISODE
In this podcast episode Pippa chats with John Winter from Glen Innes, NSW.
John is a chemical engineer and farmer who explains how biochar could become a powerful tool for on-farm decarbonisation, locking carbon into soils while improving their function and resilience.
The conversation unpacks the exciting potential for biochar to reduce agricultural emissions, diversify on-farm income, improve nutrient and water retention, and create long-term benefits from low-value biomass and farm residues.
John’s soil tests over 10 years have shown huge increases in the soil carbon levels. He’s also noticed the soil has improved its water holding capacity, infiltration and resilience - especially after dry periods.
John also looks ahead to the broader potential of bioenergy and syngas, pointing to a future in which farms play an even bigger role in whole-of-farm and regional decarbonisation.
So, enjoy the chat and if you want to learn more about biochar and the technology behind pyrolysis visit the SEATA website SEATA
Additional resources include the ANZ Biochar Industry Group ANZ Biochar Industry Group (ANZBIG) and the journal article How biochar works, and when it doesn't: A review of mechanisms controlling soil and plant responses to biochar - Joseph - 2021 - GCB Bioenergy - Wiley Online Library
NSW Department of Primary Industries – Trees on Farm Trees on Farm | Department of Primary Industries and NSW Department of Primary Industries – Biochar basics Biochar basics
This Farming Together episode is one in a short series where we hear from primary producers as they work towards decarbonisation. The project has been funded by the Land and Primary Industries Network of the NSW Decarbonisation Hub. You can learn more about the NSW Decarbonisation Hub at https://www.decarbhub.au/
- Disclaimer: This podcast is produced by Southern Cross University (ABN 41 995 651 524) as part of the NSW Decarbonisation Innovation Hub series. It is provided for general information and educational purposes only.
- No advice: The content of this podcast does not constitute professional, agronomic, financial, legal, environmental, business or investment advice and must not be relied upon as such. It does not consider your individual objectives, circumstances or needs. You should seek independent advice from a suitably qualified professional before acting on any information discussed.
- Guest and third‑party views: The views, opinions, statements and experiences expressed by guests and other contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Southern Cross University, the NSW Decarbonisation Innovation Hub, or their staff, partners, funders or related parties. Southern Cross University does not verify, adopt or endorse statements made by guests.
- No endorsement: References to specific tools, technologies, products, services, suppliers or organisations are based on a guest’s own experience and are provided for illustration only. They do not constitute an endorsement, recommendation, approval or warranty by Southern Cross University, and no commercial relationship should be inferred.
- No warranty / results may vary: While reasonable care is taken in producing this podcast, Southern Cross University makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy, completeness, currency or reliability of the information. Agricultural operations vary widely, and outcomes described by guests may not be achievable, replicable or suitable in other settings.
- External links: This podcast and its show notes may contain links to third‑party websites or resources provided for convenience only. Southern Cross University does not control and is not responsible for the content, availability or accuracy of those external resources.
- Limitation of liability: To the maximum extent permitted by law, Southern Cross University and the NSW Decarbonisation Innovation Hub exclude all liability for any loss, damage, cost or expense (including indirect or consequential loss) arising from any use of, or reliance on, the information in this podcast. Nothing in this disclaimer excludes, restricts or modifies any consumer guarantee, right or remedy that cannot lawfully be excluded under the Australian Consumer Law or other applicable law.
- Recording date: Information in this podcast was accurate at the time of recording. Circumstances, research findings, technologies and regulatory settings may have changed since that time.
