Willow-based biochar

Biochar quality is greatly affected by its raw material. According to studies conducted by VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland and Natural Resources Institute Finland (LUKE), willow is the best raw material for biochar production, as it

• Has an excellent pore structure: 200 m2 / g, target 700-800 m2 / g. The more pores there are, the larger the active, functional area. The advantageous pore distribution, on the other hand, enables various properties.

• Binds water and dissolved nutrients (1 day 0.6 m3 water / 300 kg or about 1 m3 and 3 days 0.9 m3 water / 300 kg or about 1 m3)

Willow-based biochar has proven to be the most functional raw material in a variety of tests. The properties of the biochar produced from willow can be modified by manufacturing methods or chemically or, for example, by inoculating suitable microbes.

Willow is the fastest growing tree species in Finland. This is another reason why it is well suited for biochar production.

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Finland has a long history and expertise in research into forestry and arboreal products

Finland is often referred to as a country of trees, with a vast majority of its land covered in forests. According to estimates, there are approximately ten trees per every person in the world in Finnish forests. The country’s forest capacity has never been larger since the known history of National Forest Inventories (NFI).

Early History of Forests in Finland

The division of Finland into biogeographical provinces has been used in recording biological phenomena since the 1850s. The present number of biogeographical provinces is 21. The country’s forests have undergone significant changes over the centuries, with the densities of small- to medium-sized pines and small broadleaves increasing in the middle and northern boreal subzones.

Forest Management and Growth

Finland has a long history of forest management, with the country’s forests increasing by 57.4 million cubic meters per year in the early 1970s. Today, the growth has increased to 104.4 million cubic meters, representing an 81% increase over the past 40 years. Proper soil preparation, planting with bred seedling material, and fertilization of older forests have contributed to this growth.

Conclusion

Finland’s tree history is rich and fascinating, with a long history of forest management and growth. The country’s forests play a crucial role in the country’s ecosystem, economy, and climate change mitigation efforts.