The 1-million-hectare rice emissions reduction project: Is biochar really feasible for Vietnamese farmers?

Vietnam's rice sector is at a major turning point. With the 1-million-hectare rice greenhouse gas emission reduction program, the Government aims to reduce emissions from rice production by 30% by 2030. Against this backdrop, biochar - biochar — the charcoal produced from agricultural by-products — is being seen by many experts as the "golden key". But the question is: Is this solution truly feasible for the millions of Vietnamese farmers cultivating small, fragmented plots?

According to data from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Vietnam's rice sector emits about 44 million tons of CO2 equivalent per year, accounting for nearly 50% of total agricultural emissions. This figure not only affects Vietnam's emissions reduction commitments at COP26 but also directly impacts the ability to export rice to stringent markets such as the EU in the future.

This article will take an in-depth look at the real-world feasibility of applying biochar in rice cultivation in Vietnam — from economic, technical, and social perspectives to policy. You will gain a comprehensive view of the opportunities and challenges, enabling you to make informed decisions for yourself and your community.

What is biochar and why was it chosen for the emission reduction program?

Definition of biochar and the basic production process

Biochar, or biochar, is a carbon-rich solid product produced by the pyrolysis of biomass under oxygen-limited or oxygen-free conditions, at temperatures from 300–700°C. Unlike open burning of straw, which causes pollution, this controlled pyrolysis process retains carbon in a stable porous structure that can persist in the soil for hundreds of years.

In Vietnam, feedstock for producing biochar is extremely abundant: rice straw, rice husks, corn stalks, coffee husks, and other agricultural by‑products. Each year Vietnam produces about 40 million tons of rice straw, of which only a small portion is effectively utilized; the majority is burned or discarded into the environment.

Mechanisms by which biochar reduces greenhouse gas emissions in rice cultivation

Biochar reduces greenhouse gas emissions through several mechanisms:

Reduction of methane (CH4) emissions: When biochar is applied to rice paddies, its porous structure improves soil aeration, increasing methane oxidation. Research at Can Tho University shows biochar can reduce methane emissions from flooded rice fields by 15–30%.

Reduction of N2O emissions: Biochar adsorbs and retains nitrogen in the soil, reducing denitrification — the main source of N2O. This not only lowers emissions but also helps rice plants use fertilizer more efficiently.

Long-term carbon sequestration: Each ton of biochar contains about 300–400 kg of stable carbon. When applied to soil, this carbon is "locked" in and does not return to the atmosphere as it would when rice straw is burned directly.

Dual benefits: emission reduction and soil improvement

What makes biochar special is dual benefits that it delivers. In addition to reducing emissions, biochar also:

• Improve soil structure: Increase porosity, helping heavy soils drain better and sandy soils retain water more effectively
• Increase fertilizer retention: A porous structure with a large surface area helps adsorb and retain nutrients
• Regulate soil pH: Biochar is mildly alkaline, helping to ameliorate acidic soils — a common issue in many rice-growing areas of Vietnam
• Increase beneficial microbial activity: The porous structure is an ideal habitat for soil microorganisms

Experience applying biochar in other countries

Japan has applied biochar (called "biochar" or "kuntan") in agriculture for hundreds of years. Currently, they have programs incentivizing farmers to use biochar combined with compost, with subsidies covering up to 50% of the costs.

China has implemented many large-scale biochar projects, especially in rice-growing provinces such as Jiangsu and Zhejiang. Results show rice yields increased by 5–15% after 2–3 consecutive seasons of biochar use.

India, with conditions similar to Vietnam, has piloted biochar in the states of Punjab and Haryana. The "community biochar" model — where cooperatives produce biochar from members' rice straw — has produced encouraging results.

Current status of biochar application in Vietnamese agriculture

Biochar pilot models implemented in Vietnam

In Vietnam, biochar is not an entirely new concept. Several pilot projects have been implemented:

Project in the Mekong Delta (2018-2020): The Vietnam Academy of Agricultural Sciences, in collaboration with IRRI, tested biochar on 50 ha in An Giang and Can Tho. Results showed an 18% reduction in methane emissions and an 8% yield increase after the second crop.

Model in Thai Binh (2019-2021): The Thai Binh Department of Agriculture implemented a rice husk biochar production model with 30 farming households. Biochar was applied together with manure, improving acid sulfate soils.

Projects by non-governmental organizations: Some international NGOs supported farmers in producing small-scale biochar using simple kilns, mainly focusing on improving garden soils.

Results achieved and revealed limitations

Pilot projects have shown clear potential of biochar:

• 15-25% reduction in methane emissions
• 5-12% yield increase after 2-3 crops
• 10-15% reduction in nitrogen fertilizer use
• Significant improvement in soil structure after one year

However, the limitations are also apparent:

• High costs: Biochar prices range from 3,000-6,000 VND/kg, while farmers need 2-5 tons/ha for the initial application
• Inconsistent quality: Self-produced biochar often has low quality and contains many impurities
• Lack of technical guidance: Farmers do not know the dosage, how to apply it, or how to combine it with other fertilizers
• Small, fragmented scale: No stable production-distribution chain

Feedback from farmers participating in pilot projects

Mr. Nguyễn Văn Hùng, a farmer in An Giang participating in the pilot project, shared: "I see the soil is better, the rice is greener and more uniform. But biochar is too expensive; without support it will be difficult to continue."

Ms. Trần Thị Lan in Thái Bình said: "Making biochar myself is labor-intensive, buying it is expensive. Also, I don't know where to buy good quality. If a cooperative produced it together, that would be better."

General comments from farmers: They see the benefits but are concerned about the cost and the sustainability of the solution if there is no long-term support.

Comparison with traditional soil improvement methods

Biochar has advantages in long-term effectiveness but requires high upfront investment and changes in practices greater.

Detailed analysis of the feasibility of biochar for Vietnamese farmers

Economic aspect: Investment costs and expected returns

This is the factor most decisive for the feasibility of adopting biochar.

Initial investment cost:

• Quality biochar: 4,000-5,000 VND/kg
• Recommended initial application rate: 3-5 tons/ha
• Total biochar cost: 12-25 million VND/ha
• Transportation and application cost: 1-2 million VND/ha
• Total: 13-27 million VND/ha

Expected economic benefits:

• Yield increase 5-10%: 300-600 kg rice/ha/crop → 1.5-3 million VND/crop
• Reduced nitrogen fertilizer 10-15%: 200-300 thousand VND/crop
• Reduced soil restoration costs: 500 thousand - 1 million VND/year
• Total benefits: 4-8 million VND/year (2 crops)

Break-even analysis: With a cost of 15 million VND/ha and benefits of 6 million VND/year, the payback period is 2.5-3 years. This is a rather long time for smallholder farmers, especially when they have to pay upfront without certainty of the outcome.

Conclusion: Biochar is not yet economically attractive without financial support from the State or carbon credit programs.

Technical aspects: Feedstock and production technology

Feedstock: Vietnam has abundant agricultural residues - about 40 million tons of straw and stubble per year. However:

• Straw and stubble are used for many purposes: animal feed, mushroom cultivation, burning for ash
• Collecting straw and stubble scattered across millions of small fields is very costly
• A logistics and storage system is needed to store feedstock seasonally

Production technology: There are 3 levels of technology:

1. Simple combustion kiln (traditional): Low cost (5-10 million VND per kiln) but biochar quality is unstable, low efficiency (15-20%), causes air pollution.

2. Improved pyrolysis kiln: Medium cost (50-100 million VND per kiln with 500 kg/batch capacity), better quality, efficiency 25-30%, recovers syngas.

3. Industrial-scale pyrolysis plant: High cost (5-10 billion VND), large capacity (5-10 tons/day), stable quality, recovers energy and by-product chemicals.

Biggest technical challenge: To produce enough biochar for 1 million ha (3-5 million tons of biochar), need:

• 10-15 million tons of straw/rice residue (nearly 40% of total production)
• 1,000-2,000 medium-scale kilns or 100-200 large plants
• A feedstock collection system across rice-growing regions

This is a huge logistics challenge for which there is currently no clear solution.

Social aspects: acceptance and changes in farming practices

Vietnamese rice farmers have cultivated rice for thousands of years with deep-rooted practices:

Psychological barriers:

• Habit of using chemical fertilizers: "See immediate results"
• Skepticism about new products: "No one has tried it; afraid of risk"
• Herd mentality: "Wait for others to do it first; if it's successful, we'll follow"

Knowledge challenges:

• Biochar is a scientific concept, difficult to explain to farmers
• Its use is more complex than conventional fertilizers
• Effects are not immediately visible; require persistence for 2-3 seasons

Positive factors:

• Younger, better-educated farmers, open to new technologies
• The trend toward organic and green agriculture is increasing
• Pressure from climate change is driving farmers' interest in sustainable solutions

Conclusion: There is a need for a long-term communication and training strategy, starting with pioneering farmers, creating successful pilot models to replicate.

Policy aspect: Government support and incentive mechanisms

Existing policies:

• The 1 million-hectare rice emissions reduction project (Decision 339/QĐ-TTg)
• National Target Program on New Rural Development
• Policies supporting high-tech agriculture

However, there is no specific policy regarding support for the production and use of biochar.

What is needed:

• Direct financial support: Subsidize 50-70% of biochar costs for farmers participating in the project
• Support for equipment investment: Preferential-interest loans for cooperatives producing biochar
• Carbon credit policy: Mechanism for selling carbon credits to farmers who reduce emissions
• Quality standards: Establish agricultural biochar standards and enforce quality control
• Tax incentives: VAT exemption for the production and sale of biochar

International experience: Japan provides 50% cost support, China has subsidy policies and purchases carbon credits. Vietnam needs to learn from these and adapt appropriately to local conditions.

The biggest barrier to applying biochar at a 1 million-hectare scale

Shortage of a stable supply of quality biochar

This is the number one barrier. Currently, Vietnam only has a few small companies producing biochar, with total capacity not exceeding 5,000 tons/year. Meanwhile, the demand for 1 million ha is 3-5 million tons/year.

The Vietnamese biochar market is still:

• Fragmented, lacking organization
• Inconsistent quality, lacking quality control
• Large price disparities (2,000-8,000 VND/kg)
• No reputable brands

To meet the demand for 1 million ha, it would require an investment of several trillion VND into the production system; this is not a small amount.

High cost compared to the average income of farmers

Average income from rice farming in Vietnam is only about 15-25 million VND/ha/year (after deducting costs). Spending 15-25 million VND to buy biochar is equivalent to an entire year's income.

For small farmers (under 1 ha), this is too large an investment and carries high risk. They do not have enough capital and do not dare to take the risk with new, unproven technology.

Lack of value chain and technical support services

Biochar is not a "buy-and-use" product like chemical fertilizers. Farmers need:

• Advice on the appropriate application rate for different soil types
• Guidance on how to apply it in combination with other fertilizers
• Monitoring and adjustments during use
• Evaluating effectiveness for optimization

Currently, agricultural extension system has not been trained in biochar. Biochar production businesses are small-scale and do not have sufficient resources to provide technical services.

Gap in awareness and trust in new technologies

Many farmers still do not understand what biochar is, why black charcoal can improve soil and reduce emissions. They are used to the logic "apply fertilizer → immediate greening", whereas biochar needs time to take effect.

Moreover, the market has had many "miracle" products that in reality were ineffective, causing farmers to be skeptical about any new product.

The issue of measuring and monitoring emissions reduction effectiveness

For biochar to truly contribute to emissions reduction initiatives, the following are needed:

• Systems to measure emissions before and after application
• Continuous monitoring over multiple seasons
• Verification and certification of the amount of emissions reduced

This is a complex technical task, requiring expensive equipment and specialists. With 1 million hectares dispersed, monitoring is a huge challenge.

If it cannot be measured, it cannot participate in the carbon credit market, and farmers lose a potential source of income to offset investment costs.

Feasible solutions and a roadmap for biochar adoption

A decentralized biochar production model suitable for Vietnam

Instead of building large centralized plants, a decentralized model is more suitable for Vietnam's conditions:

Cooperative/producer group model for biochar production:

• Each commune/cluster of communes has 1–2 medium-scale biochar kilns
• The cooperative purchases straw and stubble from members, produces biochar and supplies it back
• Low transport costs, creates local employment
• The state supports 70% of equipment investment costs

Social enterprise model:

• Businesses invest in equipment and technology
• Contractual partnerships with farmers: purchase rice straw and crop residues, supply biochar, provide technical support
• Businesses benefit from carbon credits

Advantages: Flexible, suitable for small-scale operations, creates jobs, reduces logistics costs.

Financial support and risk-sharing mechanisms for farmers

Proposed financial support package:

1. Pilot phase (first 10,000 ha):

   • Government covers 100% of biochar costs
   • Free technical assistance
   • Crop loss insurance

2. Expansion phase (100,000 ha):

   • Support 70% of biochar costs in the first year
   • Support 50% of biochar costs in the second year
   • Preferential loans with 0% interest for participating farmers

3. Scale-up phase (1 million ha):

   • Support 30–50% through carbon credits
   • Mechanism for payment for environmental services
   • Priority purchase of rice from areas applying biochar

Risk-sharing mechanism:

• An agricultural insurance fund compensates if yields decline
• Commitment to buy back biochar if farmers do not want to continue
• Long-term contracts ensure an outlet for the product

Develop the biochar value chain from production to application

The complete value chain should include:

1. Collection of raw materials: Straw procurement teams, collection stations
2. Production: Network of biochar kilns, quality control
3. Processing: Grinding, mixing with fertilizers, packaging
4. Distribution: Network of agents, agricultural stores
5. Technical services: Consulting, guidance, supervision
6. Product procurement: Linkages with rice companies and exporters

Roles of stakeholders:

• Government: Policies, financial support, oversight
• Businesses: Technology investment, brand building
• Cooperatives/Cooperative groups: Organize production, link farmers
• Research organizations: Technology transfer, training
• Farmers: Supply raw materials, apply biochar

Training and technology transfer to the community

Tiered training program:

Level 1 - Pioneer Farmers:

• 3-5 day training course on biochar and usage techniques
• Hands-on practice at demonstration sites
• 100% financial support, certification provided

Level 2 - Agricultural Extension Officers:

• Advanced training on biochar science
• Advisory and farmer support skills
• Regular knowledge updates

Level 3 - Production Technicians:

• Operation of biochar kilns
• Quality control
• Equipment maintenance

Training format:

• Local in-person classes
• Instructional videos in Vietnamese
• Mobile app to support farmers
• Farmer clubs adopting biochar

Combining biochar with other emission-reduction solutions

Biochar is not a standalone solution but should be combined with:

1. AWD technique (Alternate Wetting and Drying):

• Alternate wetting and drying irrigation
• Reduces methane emissions by 30-50%
• Reduces water use by 15-25%
• When combined with biochar, increases effectiveness to 40-60%

2. Reduce chemical nitrogen fertilizer use:

• Use high-efficiency nitrogen fertilizers (coated urea)
• Apply at the right time and rate
• Biochar helps retain nitrogen, reducing losses

3. Use low-emission rice varieties:

• New rice varieties with well-aerated root systems
• Reduce methane emissions from roots
• Combining with biochar improves the root environment

4. Proper straw management:

• Do not burn straw in the field
• Collect for biochar production or composting
• Properly returning fertilizer to the soil

Comprehensive solution package This can reduce emissions by 50-70%, much higher than using biochar alone.

Experience from successful models and lessons learned

Case study: Biochar model in An Giang province

Although there are no large-scale models yet, some small initiatives have shown potential:

Hợp tác xã Nông nghiệp Tân Lập (An Giang):

• 25 farming households participated (2020-2023)
• Self-produced biochar from rice husks using simple kilns
• Applied together with livestock manure on over 15 ha

Results after 3 years:

• Yield increased by 7% (from 6.2 to 6.65 tons/ha)
• 12% reduction in nitrogen fertilizer use
• Soil improved noticeably; reduced acidity
• Biochar production cost: 1,500 VND/kg (60% cheaper than purchasing externally)

Success factors:

• An enthusiastic leader (cooperative chairman)
• Working in groups and sharing experiences
• Utilizing available residues (rice husks)
• No pressure from high costs

Limitations:

• Small scale, difficult to scale up
• Biochar quality is inconsistent
• Insufficient specialized technical support

Lessons from Japan and China in promoting biochar

Japan - "Top-down with participation" model:

• Government issues clear biochar standards
• Generous financial support (50-70%)
• Certification "Produce using biochar" to increase value
• Strong scientific research, transparent publication of results
• Lessons: Need clear policies and long-term support.

China - "Pilot then rapid scale-up" model:

• Start with small pilot areas.
• Evaluate thoroughly, adjust flexibly.
• When results are available, rapidly scale up with substantial resources.
• State-owned enterprises play a leading role.
• Lessons: Be patient with the pilot phase; don't rush.

India - "Community-led" model:

• Farmer organizations self-producing biochar
• NGO provides technical support and initial equipment
• Gradually self-operating and self-financing
• Lessons: Empower communities, foster autonomy and initiative

Role of businesses and non-governmental organizations

Businesses can:

• Invest in large-scale biochar production technology
• Build a high-quality biochar brand
• Partner with farmers along the value chain
• Develop combined biochar products (biochar + NPK)
• Participate in the carbon credit market

NGOs/international organizations can:

• Provide financial support for the pilot phase
• Transfer technology and international expertise
• Train and build capacity for farmers
• Connect to the international carbon market
• Independent monitoring and impact evaluation

Public-private partnership (PPP) model:

• Government: Policy, initial financial support
• Businesses: Technology, management, market
• NGOs: Training, monitoring, evaluation
• Farmers: Production, adoption

This model has been successful in many countries and can be applied in Vietnam.

Key factors for the biochar model's success in Vietnam

Compiled from international experience and the realities in Vietnam, 5 key factors are:

1. Sustainable financial support: Not only the initial stage but requires a 5-10 year commitment

2. Appropriate technology: Not too advanced, not too basic, suitable for local conditions

3. Well-organized institutions: Strong cooperatives, close linkages, with leadership

4. Structured training: Not only one-time guidance but continuous support

5. Market linkages: Ensure farmers benefit and products have better market opportunities

Without any one of these five factors, the model is unlikely to be successful and sustainable.

Conclusion: Biochar - a long-term solution that requires a suitable roadmap

Summary of the feasibility assessment of biochar for Vietnamese farmers

After a comprehensive analysis, it can be concluded:

From a technical perspective: Biochar is fully feasible - proven technology, abundant feedstock, and clear emissions reduction benefits.

From an economic perspective: Biochar is not yet economically viable without support - high costs, long payback periods, and high risks for smallholder farmers.

From a social perspective: Biochar may be feasible if there is a good communication and training strategy - farmers are willing to change if they see clear benefits.

In terms of policy: Biochar will be feasible when there are strong and sustainable support policies from the government.

Biochar is not a miracle solution but has potential

It must be frankly acknowledged: Biochar is not a silver bullet that solves all of Vietnam's agricultural problems. It cannot:

• Completely replace chemical fertilizers
• Boost yields dramatically right away
• Easily applied to all soil types and regions
• Address emission reductions on its own without additional measures

But biochar has great potential as part of an overall solution:

• Sustainably improve soil
• Significantly reduce emissions
• Increase fertilizer use efficiency
• Contribute to green, circular agriculture

The key is not having excessively high expectations and not imposing rigid rules, but it requires flexibility, step-by-step implementation suited to real conditions.

Recommendations for farmers, businesses, and policymakers

Recommendations for farmers:

• Don't rush into large investments in biochar without support
• Participate in pilot programs if opportunities arise
• Learn from farmers who have gone before
• Combine biochar with other measures (AWD, reduced nitrogen fertilizer use)
• Produce biochar at small scale from residues if feasible

Recommendations for businesses:

• Invest in research on biochar production technologies suitable for Vietnam
• Develop sustainable business models that not only sell products but also provide services
• Forge strong links with farmers and share the benefits from carbon credits
• Develop high-quality, certified biochar products
• Participate in the value chain from raw material collection to product consumption

Recommendations for policymakers:

• Enact specific, long-term support policies for biochar
• Start at a small scale (10,000-50,000 ha), thoroughly evaluate before scaling up
• Develop biochar quality standards and a certification system
• Support the development of a complete value chain
• Connect with international carbon markets to generate income for farmers
• Invest heavily in training and technology transfer

Vision: Biochar in Vietnam's sustainable agricultural ecosystem

Looking to the future, biochar could become an important link in Vietnam's circular, sustainable agricultural ecosystem:

2025-2027 (Pilot phase):

• 10,000-20,000 ha adopting biochar
• Establish 50-100 successful demonstration models
• Finalize policies and standards
• Train technical staff

2028-2030 (Expansion phase):

• 100,000-200,000 ha adopting biochar
• Form a complete biochar value chain
• Reputable biochar companies emerge
• Successfully connect with carbon markets

After 2030 (Scaling-up phase):

• 500,000-1 million ha adopting biochar
• Biochar becomes a standard element in sustainable rice cultivation
• Vietnam exports biochar technology and expertise
• Significant contribution to the Net Zero 2050 commitment

To achieve this vision, we need commitment and cooperation from all parties: the State, businesses, farmers, research organizations and the international community.

The 1-million-hectare rice emissions reduction project is a major challenge but also an opportunity for Vietnamese agriculture to transform, toward green, sustainable production that meets global requirements. Biochar is not the only solution, but it is certainly an important part of the overall picture.

Let's start with small, practical, but steadfast steps. Success will come from persistence, flexibility, and cooperation.