# Appendix
## Appendix 1: Ecoinvent inputs
See the appendices of the associated GHG quantification modules for lists of ecoinvent processes used. This methodology does not introduce the use of any additional ecoinvent processes.
## Appendix 2: Operating procedure for Kiln Operator
Preparation of Biomass
* Select Eligible Feedstock:
* Use only approved biomass types (e.g., forest waste, agricultural residues, invasive species).
* Ensure biomass is classified as waste (not grown for CDR/bioenergy, not usable for valuable products).
* Keep records of biomass type and source (e.g., photos, invoices, or contracts).
* Dry Biomass:
* Measure moisture content using a handheld moisture sensor.
* Take at least 15 measurements per kiln run, distributed evenly across the biomass pile (width and depth).
* Ensure mean moisture content ≤15% and no individual measurement >25%.
* Upload photos of sensor readings to dMRV as proof.
* Prepare Biomass for Kiln:
* Chop or chip biomass to the appropriate size for the kiln.
* Document biomass preparation with photos/videos and upload to dMRV.
Conducting Pyrolysis
* Load Biomass:
* Load dried biomass into the kiln, following training guidelines for proper feeding rates.
* Avoid overloading to prevent cooling or flame quenching.
* Monitor Pyrolysis:
* Start the kiln and ensure temperature sensors are functioning.
* Maintain pyrolysis temperature ≥350°C for the required duration.
* For open kilns, ensure a clean flame curtain (no white smoke/ash).
* Document the process with time-stamped photos/videos of:
* Flame quality (open kiln).
* Temperature readings (automatically continuously recorded)
* Kiln operation (e.g., biomass feeding, flame height).
* Quench Biochar:
* Rapidly quench biochar after pyrolysis to minimize methane emissions.
* Document quenching with time-stamped photos/videos showing start/end times.
* Record Any Energy Use:
* Track energy/fuel used for ignition and methane combustion (if applicable).
* Upload records to dMRV.
Set Aside Biochar Samples
* Set Aside Biochar Subsamples:
* After each kiln run, set aside 3 liters of biochar (1 liter from 3 spots in the pile).
* Add subsamples to the Site Composite Biochar Pile for the production batch.
* Measure Biochar Quantity:
* Volume Approach:
* Use standardized containers (e.g., 1 m³ bags) to measure biochar volume.
* Record the number of containers produced per run.
* Mass Approach:
* Weigh biochar before or after quenching using calibrated scales.
* If weighed after quenching, measure moisture content (3 samples per batch) and adjust for dry mass.
* Document Sampling, upload to dMRV:
* Photos of subsamples being set aside.
Annual Site Composite Sample Preparation
* Prepare a representative sample for the Production Batch Composite Biochar Pile.
* Grind and Mix Biochar:
* Grind the Site Composite Biochar Pile to <3 mm.
* Mix thoroughly by shoveling the pile three times.
* Take Subsamples:
* Take 15 subsamples (150 ml each) from different spots in the mixed pile.
* Combine subsamples and mix again.
* Take a final 1.5-liter sample for the Annual Site Composite Sample.
* Document Process:
* Upload photos of mixing and sampling to dMRV.
Uploading Proof to dMRV
* Upload Required Data:
* Kiln Run Proof:
* Temperature curves (from sensors).
* Photos/videos of pyrolysis (flame, biomass feeding, quenching).
* Biomass moisture content measurements.
* Biochar volume/mass produced.
* Sampling Proof:
* Photos of subsamples added to the Site Composite Biochar Pile.
* QR codes of biochar bags (if used).
* End-Use Proof:
* GPS coordinates and photos of biochar delivery/application.
* Contact information of biochar users.
* Flag Anomalies:
* Report any issues (e.g., incomplete data, unsatisfactory pyrolysis) to the Project Developer or Kiln Supervisor.
## Appendix 3: Operating procedure for Kiln Supervisor
Annual Site Visits
* Schedule Visits:
* Visit each kiln operator at least once per year.
* Observe at least one kiln run per site during the visit.
* Verify Compliance:
* Ensure proper biomass feeding and moisture content measurements.
* Check storage conditions for biomass and biochar.
* Confirm biochar sampling procedures are followed.
Bulk Density Measurements (Volume Approach)
Measure bulk density for projects using the volume-based approach.
* Prepare Biochar Sample:
* Collect a representative sample from the Site Composite Biochar Pile at each site.
* Sample from the bottom, middle, and top of the pile.
* Transport the sample carefully to avoid breakage.
* Dry the Biochar:
* Dry the sample in a ventilated oven (≥110°C overnight).
* Measure Bulk Density:
* Use standardized containers of predefined volume.
* Use calibrated scales (digital preferred; if analog, round down values).
* Measure each site’s biochar separately (no mixing).
* Exclude outliers (3 standard deviations from the mean).
* Calculate the final bulk density as the mean minus one standard deviation.
* Upload Proof:
* Upload photos of each step to dMRV.
Production Batch Composite Biochar Pile
* Combine samples from all sites for lab analysis.
* Combine Site Samples:
* Mix all Annual Site Composite Samples into one pile.
* Shovel the pile three times for homogeneity.
* Take Project Representative Sample:
* Take 15 subsamples (150 ml each) from the mixed pile.
* Combine and mix again.
* Take the final Project Representative Sample for lab analysis.
* Store Retention Sample:
* Keep the remaining biochar as a retention sample for 2 years.
* Upload Records:
* Upload photos, dates, times, and QR codes to dMRV.
Training and Oversight
* Conduct Training:
* Train operators on safety, biomass preparation, moisture measurement, pyrolysis, quenching, sampling, and dMRV use.
* Monitor Performance:
* Flag non-compliant kiln runs (e.g., incomplete data, improper pyrolysis).
* Report findings to the Project Developer.
## Appendix 4: Operating procedure for Project Developer
Project Setup and Kiln Technology Management
* Define Project Scope
* Register the project as a single entity operating one or more kilns across one or more sites, within a single country, using the same kiln technology and dMRV approach.
* Ensure all sites and kilns are under the oversight or data access of the Project Developer.
* Select and Deploy Kiln Technology
* Use pre-approved kiln designs from Rainbow’s published list. For new designs, submit for Rainbow and VVB approval.
* Verify kilns have integrated temperature sensors and, for closed kilns, methane combustion systems.
* Assign unique QR codes to each kiln.
* Document kiln technical features (e.g., chimney design, sensor placement) in dMRV.
* Ensure no individual kiln produces more than 1,500 m³ of biochar annually (closed kilns) or 500 m³ (open kilns).
* Define Project-Specific Criteria at Validation
* Biomass feedstock types and proof of waste status.
* Sampling and measurement protocols (e.g., H/C ratio, bulk density, methane emissions).
* Training Protocol for kiln operators.
* roject-specific criteria for evaluating temperature curves. Focus on red flags (e.g., incomplete biomass drying, improper feed-in rates).
* Select and Validate dMRV Platform
* Ensure the platform meets Rainbow’s requirements (e.g., QR code scanning, photo uploads, GPS tracking).
* Submit the platform for Rainbow validation before use.
Oversight of All Kiln Runs
* Review dMRV Data
* Check every kiln run for:
* Temperature curves (≥350°C maintained, pre-defined project-specific temperature criteria met).
* Biomass moisture content (≤15% mean, no single measurement >25%).
* Biochar volume/mass produced.
* Photos of pyrolysis, quenching, and sampling.
* Coordinate Biochar Sampling
* Ensure Kiln Supervisors prepare:
* Site Composite Biochar Piles (mixed subsamples from all runs).
* Annual Site Composite Samples (representative samples for bulk density).
* Verify Project Representative Samples are sent to accredited labs for:
* H/C ratio.
* Organic carbon content.
* Environmental pollutants.
* Flag Non-Conformities
* Exclude ineligible kiln runs (e.g., incomplete data, improper pyrolysis).
* Document reasons for exclusion in the Annual Oversight Report.
* Coordinate Methane Emission Testing
* Schedule Testing:
* Conduct testing annually or whenever biomass feedstock changes.
* Test three representative kiln runs (same kiln type and feedstock).
* Use Accredited Providers:
* Ensure testing is done by organizations accredited with ASTM D7036, ISO 17025, or approved by state/regional authorities.
* Document Results:
* Upload methane emission measurements and photos of the testing process to dMRV.
Training and Support
* Train kiln operators on:
* Safety protocols for kiln operation.
* Biomass preparation (drying, sizing).
* Moisture content measurement.
* Pyrolysis and quenching.
* Biochar sampling procedures.
* dMRV use.
* Upload training records to dMRV, including:
* Attendance logs.
* Photos/videos of training sessions.
* Test results or proof of completion.
* Offer ongoing support in the form of refreshers and troubleshooting (e.g., temperature curve analysis, moisture measurement).
Annual Oversight Report
Compile Data
* List all kiln runs and their status (eligible/ineligible).
* Document non-conformities (e.g., missing data, improper sampling) and remediation steps.
Include Site Visit Findings
* Summarize Kiln Supervisor observations (e.g., biomass storage, kiln operation, sampling compliance).
Submit to VVB
* Provide the report to the Validation and Verification Body (VVB) for audit.
* Address any VVB recommendations (e.g., additional site visits, data corrections).