Marginal Cost of Carbon Sequestration Using Straw-Based Biochar in Great Britain

Achieving the net-zero target of the United Kingdom requires substantial greenhouse gas removal (GGR) in addition to emission reductions. Biochar, a stable carbon-rich material produced through biomass pyrolysis, is an established GGR method. Straw is abundantly available in the UK and presents a viable option for large-scale biochar production. However, uncertainties regarding its feasibility remain, particularly concerning costs, spatial constraints, and facility construction. Here, we use a spatial model integrated with life cycle assessment and technoeconomic analysis to estimate the marginal cost curve for net carbon sequestration through straw-based biochar production in Great Britain (GB). Our findings reveal that straw-based biochar production in GB can achieve 0.6–1.9% of the UK’s 2050 carbon removal target at marginal costs below £75 per tCO2e. If higher-cost options are also included (i.e., without the £75 per tCO2e constraint), the total potential removal increases to 0.8–2.1%. The marginal costs are significantly influenced by the price and availability of feedstock, the value of byproducts, and the biochar yield. Our integrated spatial model helps identify optimal feedstock supply and production strategies, reducing costs and uncertainties in net carbon sequestration for biochar systems. This study elucidates the challenges and limitations of utilizing straw for large-scale biochar production in GB to support the climate change mitigation pathway.

Share this

Research theme(s)
Evidence base
GGR Method(s)
Biochar
Publication type
Article
Author(s)
Yuzhou Tang, Paul Wilson, Tim T Cockerill
Publication date
January 9, 2026
Publisher
Environmental Science & Technology
CO₂RE - The Greenhouse Gas Removal Hub
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.