Background

InterEarth grows a multi-species selection of highly adapted coppicing woody plants in Australia. Following periodic trimming, the harvested biomass is buried and encapsulated in dedicated chambers for long-term storage to permanently store the carbon captured within the biomass.

The method has the potential to cost-effectively and permanently remove large amounts of CO2 but has so far not been explored. By being an early customer, we help InterEarth test out its approach, exploring its viability. However, we recognize if further scaling up beyond current project areas in Australia is to happen, competition with other land uses needs to be carefully considered.

Progress

Over the past year, InterEarth has successfully completed a trial of their storage solution, confirming that carbon can be effectively stored for long periods under the right conditions. This is a critical validation of their approach and a significant step forward in their work.

In addition, InterEarth has completed the design and commenced the construction of a prototype biomass harvester. This equipment is central to the efficient collection and handling of biomass for long-term storage. The successful development of this prototype represents a key milestone in their project.

InterEarth has also made progress on the ground with a 350 ha demonstration plot of their multi-species biomass plantation well underway. This practical application of their approach has provided valuable learning opportunities and insights that will aid in the further development and scaling of their project.

InterEarth is on track to complete their first CO2 removal during the first quarter of 2024, in line with their commitment to the CTF. They are also in the process of registration under the Puro.earth woody biomass burial methodology, which will provide third-party validation of their work. The CTF was one of the very first buyers whose contribution has been particularly important in making InterEarth’s demonstration planting possible.