Fairtrade Network of Asia & Pacific Producers (NAPP) recently facilitated a practical training and exposure visit on Biochar Technology for Fairtrade-certified grape farmers from Nashik and Sangli, Maharashtra. The program was held at the Centre of Excellence for Biochar, Heartfulness Institute, Kanha Shantivanam, Hyderabad, aiming to equip producers with sustainable agricultural practices that enhance soil health, reduce input dependency, and build resilience against climate stress.

Grape cultivation in semi-arid regions faces increasing challenges, including declining soil organic carbon, reduced fertility, rising fertilizer costs, and water scarcity. These challenges highlight the need for practical, accessible, and climate-smart techniques that support long-term agricultural sustainability. Biochar, produced through controlled carbonization of agricultural waste such as pruned branches and dry biomass, offers a scientifically proven solution by improving soil organic matter, nutrient-holding capacity, and water retention, while also contributing to waste-to-resource conversion and reduced emissions from open burning.

During the training, participants received hands-on instruction in the complete biochar production cycle, including raw material selection, carbonization methods, and activation techniques. Farmers also learned field-level application strategies and how to blend biochar with compost, farmyard manure, and microbial inoculants to maximize soil-building benefits. The program emphasized creating farm-scale systems using cost-effective and locally available materials, making adoption feasible for smallholder producers.

Producers expressed strong appreciation for the training, noting its practical approach and high relevance to grape farming systems. They reported gaining confidence in adopting biochar at the farm level and recognized its potential to revive soil fertility, improve vineyard productivity, and reduce reliance on chemical inputs. Many farmers expressed their commitment to replicating biochar units within their communities and encouraging wider adoption among fellow growers.

This initiative reflects Fairtrade NAPP’s continued commitment to empowering producer organizations with regenerative farming knowledge and technology. Through its Producer Support Services, NAPP promotes innovative, science-based practices that strengthen climate resilience, enhance farm sustainability, and improve farmer livelihoods. The biochar program marks another step toward building healthy soils, stronger Fairtrade supply chains, and a greener future for farming communities.