Kelpie Wilson: The Biochar Industry Past, Present, and Future

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

ABOUT THE HOST

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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The Biochar Show is a Production of Biochar Today.