CarbonConnect Website

Methodology

Decentralised Soil Kon-Tiki

Country

Cameroon

Annual Removal Capacity

10,000 Tons

Local Operations Partner

Carbonlog

Overview

The first-of-its-kind project in Manjo, Cameroon, utilizes bamboo that has no recognized use in the area. Unlike in regions where bamboo serves as a resource for construction or handicrafts, this particular bamboo species is considered a nuisance by local farmers. Originally introduced in the 1970s for agricultural support structures, it was later abandoned and spread uncontrollably across farmland. Today, the material is of no commercial value - its fiber is too thin and irregular for industrial or artisanal applications - and it accumulates as unmanaged biomass leading to flood risks. Farmers often attempt to remove it through burning, leading to air pollution and soil degradation. On varying locations, most farmers in town participate in the biochar program and utilize biochar as fertilizer amendment for their own cultivation. They are trained and supervised by Carbonlog, a dedicated regional team of engineers & pyrolysis specialists.

Process

In accordance with eco-system restoration, no purpose-grown bamboo is used. All feedstock is sourced sustainably, prepared, dried, and used for biochar production via soil Kon-Tikis. The production sites are set up where feedstock is available to avoid transportation. The farmers mostly produce as much as they need to apply it to their own fields.

Results

The project utilizes bamboo that would otherwise be burnt, or discarded. The farmers involved in the program all switched from synthetic fertilizer to creating their own biochar compost and applying it to their fields. An excellent example of how a whole village can improve their livelihoods by utilising nearby waste residues to increase their farm productivity and generate additional income on top. About half of the participants are women.