#carbon removal #Biochar #Gurugram #Ivory Coast #Varaha

Varaha's Industrial Partners Program: A New Era for Carbon Removal

In a groundbreaking initiative, Varaha has announced the launch of the Varaha Industrial Partners Program (VIPP), which targets the enhancement of carbon removal through the conversion of biomass into biochar. This global program is particularly focused on biomass processing facilities that have access to sustainable feedstocks. The pilot partnership under this program involves collaboration with Revata Carbon and Valency International to develop an industrial biochar project in Côte d'Ivoire.

Addressing Environmental Challenges in Côte d'Ivoire

Côte d'Ivoire is a prominent player in the global cashew market. However, as the industry expands, it presents environmental challenges due to significant waste produced during processing, particularly from cashew shells. These byproducts often lack high-value applications and can contribute to waste management issues, as many of them are commonly incinerated instead of repurposed. The VIPP initiative aims to change this narrative by transforming cashew shells into biochar through controlled gasification, a method that ensures environmental sustainability while creating valuable resources.

The biochar produced from this process is set to serve as an effective soil amendment. It is anticipated that such applications will not only improve soil fertility but also support long-term carbon storage, thereby directly benefiting local farmers and communities.

The Role of Key Partners

Varaha is spearheading the measurement, reporting, and verification (MRV) processes while managing the commercialization of carbon credits. This includes structuring and executing sales to both corporate and institutional buyers. The partnership with Puro.earth ensures that the credits generated align with industry methodologies in biochar.

In-country operations such as developing feedstock ecosystems and engaging local stakeholders will be managed by Revata Carbon. Their expertise will facilitate the effective conversion of agricultural residues into biochar, promoting sustainable practices within the local industry. Valency International, a significant player in the agribusiness field, will contribute by supplying necessary feedstock and leveraging its supply chain know-how to scale up project operations. Their involvement underscores a commitment to decarbonizing agricultural practices, especially in sectors like cashew processing.

Voices of Leadership

Madhur Jain, CEO of Varaha, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting its potential to create a scalable model for carbon removal in West Africa. “[Valency International and Revata Carbon] bring essential on-the-ground experience that, combined with our robust MRV and commercialization framework, paves the way for effectively addressing carbon emissions in the region,” he stated.

Vaibav Jain, Founder and CEO of Revata Carbon, acknowledged the importance of collaboration stating that their aim is to showcase Africa's potential as a leader in biochar projects, helping local industries utilize agricultural waste responsibly while boosting community engagement.

Sumit Jain, Group CEO of Valency International, commented on the partnership’s significance, noting that it reflects their commitment to decarbonization within their value chains, especially focusing on cashew byproducts. “This initiative represents a viable, climate-positive solution embedded within our processing operations,” he explained.

Join the Movement

Varaha is inviting interested industrial operators to become part of the VIPP initiative, which promises to shift the paradigm of carbon removal efforts while fostering sustainable practices across agricultural sectors in West Africa.

About Varaha

Established in 2022, Varaha has risen to prominence as Asia's largest developer of carbon dioxide removal (CDR) projects. It focuses on pioneering solutions led by smallholder farmers that enhance rural livelihoods while actively working to remove carbon from the atmosphere. By specializing in areas such as regenerative agriculture, agroforestry, biochar, and enhanced rock weathering, Varaha continues to innovate and lead efforts across South Asia and beyond.

Through the VIPP, Varaha is not just attempting to remove carbon but is also addressing real-world challenges faced by communities and industries in Côte d'Ivoire. This comprehensive approach sets a positive precedent for future carbon removal projects worldwide.