Kelpie Wilson: The Biochar Industry Past, Present, and Future
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In this episode of the Biochar Show, host John Webster interviews Kelpie Wilson, a pioneer in the biochar industry. They discuss Kelpie's journey from mechanical engineering to becoming a key figure in biochar initiatives. The conversation covers the discovery of terra preta, the challenges of scaling the biochar industry, practical applications of biochar, innovations in production methods, and the role of biochar in wildfire management. Kelpie emphasizes the importance of using biochar to manage organic waste and its potential benefits for soil health and carbon sequestration. In this conversation, Kelpie Wilson and John Webster discuss the multifaceted benefits of biochar, including its applications in agriculture, emissions testing, and community engagement. They explore the importance of education in dispelling misconceptions about biochar production and its environmental impact. The discussion also covers the evolution of biochar programs, the significance of scientific research, and the practical applications of biochar in water management and soil health. The conversation emphasizes the need for standards and testing in biochar production, as well as the role of community involvement in advancing biochar initiatives
RELATED LINKS- The Biochar Handbook
- Practical Biochar Course
- Ring Of Fire Biochar Kiln
- The Biochar Prepper (Substack)
- Mobile biochar production by flame carbonization: Reducing wildfire risk and improving forest resilience
- Kelpie on YouTube
- Kelpie on Instagram
- Kelpie on LinkedIn
- Wilson Biochar
Since 2019, John Webster has run Go Biochar, a leading source for bulk biochar sales & service, biochar technical consulting, field demonstrations, and product development across agriculture, forestry, fuels, and carbon markets. John serves as Director of Development for BiocharOnSite and was formerly the Director of Communications for the US Biochar Initiative. Through these roles, he has helped expand awareness, shape national conversations, and move the industry toward commercial adoption. John brings deep experience and a storyteller’s approach to the program. His mission is to connect the dots between local practices and global carbon goals. For him, biochar is more than a product. It’s a key to rebuilding resilient soils, slashing emissions, and creating circular economies. Nature pulls carbon from the sky. Biochar helps us keep it in the ground!
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- 0:00Introduction to Biochar and Kelpie Wilson
- 2:00Kelpie’s Journey to Biochar
- 4:28The Discovery of Terra Preta and Biochar
- 7:54Involvement with IBI and USBI
- 11:21Challenges in Scaling the Biochar Industry
- 14:42The Role of Biomass Energy
- 17:02Innovative Approaches to Biochar Production
- 19:11The Oregon Kiln and Its Development
- 28:06From Oregon Kiln to Ring of Fire
- 30:43The Impact of Ring of Fire on Biochar Production
- 33:32Design Innovations and Practical Applications
- 35:54Utilizing Biochar in Fire Mitigation and Land Stewardship
- 41:30Cascading Benefits of Biochar for Ecosystems
- 47:13Research and Emissions Testing in Biochar Practices
- 56:25Public Misconceptions and the Future of Biochar
- 1:01:23Carbon Markets and Biochar’s Viability
- 1:04:26Community Benefits and Multi-Functionality of Biochar
- 1:06:36Water Management and Biochar’s Role
- 1:12:04Standards and Testing in Biochar Production
- 1:18:13Educational Initiatives and Practical Applications
- 1:20:48Evolution of Biochar Programs and Community Engagement
- 1:32:07Closing Thoughts and Future Directions