Releaf Earth, a climate-tech startup, has launched Nigeria’s first industrial-scale biochar carbon removal facility in Cross River State — aiming to remove 40 kilotonnes of CO₂e by 2030, with plans to scale to 100 kilotonnes.
Why it matters
Carbon removal must scale 14,000-fold in the next 25 years to meet global climate targets. Africa, with its abundance of agricultural waste and rural labor, is uniquely positioned to lead — and biochar is leading the charge.
How it works
- Releaf converts palm kernel shells into biochar, a stable carbon-rich material.
- Biochar locks carbon in soil for thousands of years while improving crop yields and reducing fertilizer costs.
- The process also generates renewable energy, enabling off-grid deployment.
Impact so far
- Releaf’s patented Kraken machine has processed 10,000+ metric tonnes of palm nuts, generating biochar-ready waste.
- A 2024 pilot in Cross River showed a 23% boost in crop yields.
- Smallholder farmers could see incomes rise by over 50%, thanks to better harvests and saleable carbon credits.
What they’re saying
- “Africa has natural advantages to lead carbon removal globally… We’re proving the model with our own operations and enabling others to scale,” — Ikenna Nzewi, CEO, Releaf Earth
- “Africa could become the most affordable and largest producer of biochar anywhere — Tito Jankowski, CEO, AirMiners
What’s next:
Releaf is developing tools to help other food processors evaluate biochar feasibility, using existing agricultural infrastructure.
Verified carbon credits will be issued via the Riverse Registry, ensuring transparency and traceability.
The big picture:
With backing from Y Combinator, Breakthrough Energy Ventures, and others, Releaf aims to build a continent-wide network of biochar facilities — tackling climate change, restoring soil health, and building resilience for millions of African farmers.
