Google embraces biochar for carbon removal, partners with Indian, US startups

Google has announced its first purchase of carbon credits generated from biochar. (Photo: Wikimedia Commons)

In pursuit of its net zero target, Google has announced its first purchase of carbon credits generated from biochar. On Jan. 16, the tech giant revealed long-term agreements with Indian startup Varaha and U.S.-based Charm Industrial, with plans to buy the equivalent of 200,000 tons of biochar carbon credits by the end of 2030.

Google eyes biochar for carbon sequestration

Varaha CEO Madhur Jain shared the news on LinkedIn, stating that this marks Google’s first large-scale emissions reduction partnership in India. Google will be the first buyer of biochar carbon credits from Varaha’s facility in Gujarat, although the transaction price remains undisclosed.