Description

Aperam BioEnergia is a Brazilian company founded in the mid-1970s. It operates in the forestry and renewable energy sectors. Located in the northeast region of Minas Gerais, Aperam manages a charcoal production operation with an annual capacity of approximately 450,000 tons, all with emissions control. This operation is supported by about 156,000 hectares of FSC-certified eucalyptus forests.

Key Highlights:

• The carbonization process is conducted without using fossil fuels, prioritizing energy efficiency. Heat and gases generated during incineration are reused to dry the wood. The pyrolysis process meets the Biochar Methodology requirements, including a molar H/Corg ratio below 0.7, no fossil fuel usage, and proper recovery of pyrolysis gases.
• Aperam’s inaugural biochar project represents a sustainable shift in utilizing charcoal production byproducts. Before, it was directed toward cement and energy production. Since December 2023, these byproducts have been returned to Aperam’s forests as biochar. This process serves as a long-term method of carbon removal from the atmosphere and enhances soil quality.
• The implementation of CO₂ removal certificates underscores Aperam’s dedication to environmental stewardship. The company plans to scale up its biochar operations to bolster carbon sequestration, improve soil properties, and promote local social and economic development.
• Currently, the company has the capacity to produce around 50,000 tonnes of carbon removal annually.

Biochar Benefits

Biochar is a valuable soil amendment that improves key soil characteristics, including organic matter content, fertility, and cohesion, while boosting forest productivity. Its application increases soil water retention, reduces evaporation rates, and supports the controlled replenishment of nearby water sources. Aperam BioEnergia also contributes to local social development by providing biochar for local farmers, significantly enhancing crop productivity and positively impacting community welfare.

Certifications and Sustainability Practices

Aperam BioEnergia's production processes are certified under several international standards, including:

• ISO 45001: Health and Safety,
• ISO 14001: Environmental Management,
• ISO 14064: Greenhouse Gas Emissions Accounting

The company also engages in fauna monitoring and maintains ecological corridors to support native wildlife. These corridors allow fauna to transit through the planted forest areas and provide refuge during harvesting activities.

Carbon Credits

Aperam BioEnergia’s carbon credits are issued by the Puro.Earth registry using their own methodology. Founded in 2017, Puro.Earth is the first carbon crediting program focused exclusively on carbon removals. Since 2021, Puro.Earth has partnered with Nasdaq, becoming a cornerstone of its ESG offerings.