Solutions and expertise for converting biomass into bio-energy and high-quality bio-chars.
Technologies for biochar production and knowledge transfer.
At Sarah Jo SAS – Tierras de Montaña , we offer innovative solutions to promote the development of bioenergy , bioeconomy and atmospheric decarbonization . Specialized in the valorization of natural resources , our company is committed to transforming organic waste and biomass into strategic resources such as biochar , renewable energy and carbon credits . In collaboration with local stakeholders, we work towards a green and circular economy , while creating added value for communities and contributing to a more sustainable future.
Our technologies include:
Dual chamber worm system:
First room dedicated to drying and preparing biomass.
Second chamber ensuring controlled thermotransformation.
Heat extraction and recovery for efficient energy use.
Vertical technology:
Optimized for energy cogeneration and the production of high quality biochar .
Ideal for industries looking to maximize their energy efficiency .
From the initial study to operation, we support each project with a specialized team, guaranteeing efficient implementation adapted to the specific needs of our clients.
Energy optimization and valorization of green heat
Our processes integrate advanced heat recovery solutions, allowing:
Steam production for industrial processes.
Cogeneration of electricity for internal use or resale to the grid.
Trigeneration (heat , cold, electricity) for optimized energy management.
Feeding raw material processing machines, creating added value to finished products.
We develop efficient and sustainable installations , in compliance with current environmental and economic requirements.
Key points:
Innovative technologies : Dual chamber system and vertical technology.
Energy optimization : Heat recovery, cogeneration and trigeneration.
Tailor-made support : From study to operation, with a specialized team.
Sustainability : Environmentally friendly installations adapted to economic needs.
Key points:
- Customized solutions : Design and implementation of innovative systems.
- High purity biochar : Suitable for different types of biomass.
- Technical expertise : Optimized engineering and processes.
- Support : Integration of sustainable and efficient production into industrial models.
Scenario towards 2050
FAO and ECLAC analyses suggest that if agricultural policies are not changed and more sustainable practices are not adopted, soils and ecosystems could reach a point of exhaustion . In other words, they would no longer be able to support these practices in the long term, which would jeopardize global food security . Moreover, the consequences of these production models would extend to the social and economic stability of many regions.
Alternatives durables
To avoid this scenario, the transition to a sustainable agricultural model is essential. Among the alternatives promoted, we find:
Agroecology : An approach that aims to work in harmony with natural ecosystems, promoting crop diversity and minimizing the use of external inputs.
Regenerative Agriculture : A system focused on restoring soil health , improving biodiversity and sequestering carbon .
Cleaner and more efficient technologies : The use of technologies that reduce the environmental impact of agriculture, such as precision agriculture , rational water management and waste recovery .
Conclusion
If significant changes are not implemented, the depletion of agricultural land and ecosystems will be a real risk by 2050. International collaboration , public policies and investments in sustainable agricultural practices will be essential to mitigate these challenges and ensure a more balanced and resilient future for the planet.
Key points:
Risk of depletion : Soils and ecosystems threatened if current practices persist.
Sustainable alternatives : Agroecology, regenerative agriculture and clean technologies.
Actions needed : International collaboration, public policies and investments.
Proposition
Our proposal is part of a global vision that integrates innovative solutions to address the challenges of sustainability and ecological resilience, particularly in the agricultural and social context of Colombia. This project stands out for its multidisciplinary approach, which covers both ecosystem restoration , sustainable agricultural production and social inclusion . Here are the key axes of our proposal:
1. Production of biochar and compost
Biochar and compost are essential pillars for regenerative agriculture. Their integration offers both environmental and productive benefits:
Biochar : Improves soil fertility, increases water retention and promotes microbial biodiversity. It also contributes to carbon sequestration , thereby reducing the impact on the climate.
Compost : Transforms local organic waste into valuable resources, reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers and improving soil structure.
2. High altitude agriculture (1100 to 4000 meters)
High altitude areas present unique challenges, but also opportunities:
Challenges : Cold temperatures, nutrient-poor soils and extreme weather conditions.
Opportunities : Implementation of adaptive techniques such as cold-resistant crops, greenhouses and agroforestry systems. These areas are also suitable for breeding adapted species, such as llamas and alpacas.
3. Sustainable urban domain
Our project aims to create an urban farm model that combines food production and environmental regeneration:
Agroecological systems : Combination of crops and livestock with low use of external inputs.
Closed nutrient cycle : Valorization of organic waste to produce compost and biochar, thus creating a self-sufficient agricultural ecosystem.
4. Active participation of vulnerable communities
Social inclusion is at the heart of our approach:
Economic empowerment : Involvement of women in the management of agricultural production and the marketing of products, strengthening their financial independence.
Education and training : Training programs on sustainable agricultural techniques and natural resource management.
5. Resilience and environmental regeneration
Our project integrates practices aimed at strengthening resilience to climate change:
Renewable energy : Using solar and wind energy to reduce carbon footprint.
Soil restoration : Tree planting techniques, crop rotation and use of organic fertilizers to improve the fertility of degraded soils.
6. Education and promotion of responsible practices
Awareness and education are essential to ensure the adoption of sustainable practices:
Workshops and Trainings : Educational programs on sustainable agriculture, waste management and resource conservation.
Awareness raising : Campaigns to promote a culture of sustainability within urban communities.
7. Scalability and Replicability
Our project is designed to be scalable and replicable in other regions with similar characteristics. By demonstrating the viability of sustainable agriculture at high altitudes, we hope to inspire other initiatives around the world.
Conclusion
This proposal represents a unique opportunity to combine technological innovation, environmental regeneration and social inclusion. By building on sustainable practices and proven technologies, this project has the potential to become a replicable model for other regions, while contributing to food security and climate resilience.
Key points:
Global approach : Integration of technical, social and environmental solutions.
Innovation : Use of biochar, compost and adaptive agricultural techniques.
Social inclusion : Empowerment of vulnerable communities, especially women.
Sustainability : Soil restoration, use of renewable energy and closed nutrient cycles.
Replicability : Scalable design for application in other contexts.
General Objective
Sustainably improve land use in the project area by strengthening community organization, local autonomy and access to markets and value chains. This is achieved through the production and marketing of biochar and compost , with active participation of women and farmers’ associations in the food management of vulnerable populations. The following are the specific objectives that support this vision:
Specific Objectives
1. Sustainable land development
Implement agroecological and sustainable livestock practices to optimize land use.
Minimize negative environmental impacts and promote local biodiversity .
Restore and preserve soil fertility using innovative and environmentally friendly techniques.
2. Strengthening the network of farmers and breeders
Create a collaborative network of farmers and ranchers to share knowledge, resources and best practices.
Increasing agricultural and animal productivity through a collective approach.
Facilitate access to fairer and more profitable markets for local producers.
3. Women’s Empowerment
Strengthen rural women’s associations by giving them a central role in food management and the production of biochar and compost .
Promote their economic and social autonomy within their communities.
Provide training and tools to enable them to become key players in local development.
4. Production of biochar and compost
Develop an infrastructure for the production of biochar from agricultural and livestock waste.
Produce compost to improve soil quality and reduce organic waste.
Contribute to carbon sequestration and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
5. Food management for vulnerable populations
Establish an efficient supply chain to distribute sustainable agricultural products to vulnerable communities.
Strengthen local food security by providing nutritious and accessible foods.
Involve local populations in the management and distribution of food resources.
6. Access to markets and value chains
Facilitate access for local producers to regional and national markets.
Promote inclusion in sustainable value chains that reward responsible production efforts.
Promote local products through recognized certifications and labels.
Conclusion
These specific objectives aim to create a resilient , inclusive and sustainable agricultural ecosystem . By combining innovative practices, strengthened community governance and active participation of women, this project will contribute to improving the living conditions of local populations while preserving the environment.
Key Points:
Sustainability : Agroecological practices and soil restoration.
Collaboration : Network of farmers and breeders for increased productivity.
Inclusion : Women’s empowerment and access to fair markets.
Innovation : Production of biochar and compost for regenerative agriculture.
Food security : Effective distribution of agricultural products to vulnerable populations.
Axis of Our Proposal
The Tierra de Montaña project aims to integrate agriculture and livestock in areas located between 1,100 and 4,000 meters above sea level , promoting a sustainable agricultural model based on the exploitation of local resources and the use of innovative technologies. The key points of this proposal are:
1. High altitude agriculture and livestock farming
The project explores agricultural practices adapted to extreme high-altitude environments. While these areas present unique challenges (cold temperatures, nutrient-poor soils), they also offer opportunities to develop resilient crops and sustainable livestock systems.
2. Biomass processing technology
The project implements a technology developed in Colombia to transform biomass waste into biochar (plant carbon). This process allows:
To reduce agricultural and livestock waste .
To produce a carbon-rich amendment that improves soil fertility.
To contribute to carbon sequestration , thereby helping to combat climate change.
3. Bioenergy cogeneration
The project uses the excess heat generated by the transformation of biomass for energy cogeneration . This allows:
To produce electricity or heat useful for agricultural processes.
To make the production system self-sufficient in terms of energy .
4. Valorization of coffee and other crops
The project integrates the cultivation of coffee and other roasted beans into its agricultural system. This approach allows:
To generate added value to primary production.
To take advantage of the unique conditions of mountain environments to produce high quality products.
To diversify the agricultural supply and increase producers’ income.
5. Holistic management and biodiversity
The project proposes a global approach to land management, respecting the microbial biodiversity of soils . This method is based on:
The use of agricultural practices that promote the natural self-regulation of ecosystems.
Reducing dependence on external inputs, such as chemical fertilizers.
Long-term preservation of soil fertility.
6. Commitment to sustainable food production
In the face of the challenges of climate change, depletion of natural resources and population growth, the project commits to:
Producing food in a sustainable and resilient way .
Anticipating growing food needs from 2030 .
Contribute to local and global food security .
In Summary
Tierra de Montaña is an innovative proposal that combines cutting-edge technologies and sustainable agricultural practices in a mountainous context. This project aims not only to be economically viable , but also to contribute to environmental protection and long-term food security .
Key Points:
Adaptation to high altitudes : Development of resilient crops and livestock.
Biomass transformation : Biochar production and waste reduction.
Bioenergy cogeneration : Energy self-sufficiency through heat recovery.
Crop enhancement : Coffee and other roasted beans for high value-added production.
Holistic management : Respect for biodiversity and long-term soil fertility.
Food sustainability : Resilient production in the face of climate and demographic challenges.
Axis II of Our Proposal
To sustainably improve land use in the project area, while strengthening community organization, local autonomy and access to markets and value chains, we propose an integrated approach based on regenerative agriculture , the production and commercialization of biochar and compost , and the active participation of women and farmers’ associations in the food management of vulnerable populations. Here are the key recommendations to address this challenge:
1. Strengthen community organization
Training and education : Organize regular workshops and trainings on sustainable agricultural practices, natural resource management, and biochar and compost production techniques. Include modules on local governance, conflict resolution, and organizational skills.
Leadership Capacity Development : Promote local leadership, particularly that of women and youth, through empowerment programmes that enable them to play an active role in decision-making and resource management.
2. Self-government and community participation
Participatory management models : Create inclusive committees or cooperatives to manage the production and marketing of biochar and compost, ensuring the participation of women and vulnerable groups.
Strengthening local infrastructure : Improve the infrastructure needed for biochar and compost processing, such as production and storage centers, by promoting cooperation between communities.
3. Sustainable production and marketing of biochar and compost
Promotion of biochar : Introduce biochar as a solution to improve soil fertility and combat climate change. Promote its use in agriculture and its commercialization in local and regional markets.
Compost Production : Invest in local composting systems to recycle organic waste, while raising awareness of the benefits for soil health and sustainable agricultural production.
Market Diversification : Identify local and international markets for biochar and compost, and facilitate the connection of cooperatives with potential buyers.
Certification and added value : Implement organic and sustainable certifications to increase product value and open up new business opportunities.
4. Involvement of women and farmers in food management
Active participation of women : Ensure that women participate in all phases of the project, from production to marketing, by creating spaces dedicated to their training and empowerment.
Support for local farmers : Facilitate access to sustainable inputs and technologies, such as biochar and compost, to improve productivity and soil quality.
5. Food management for vulnerable populations
Strengthening food security : Using biochar and compost to increase agricultural productivity and ensure sufficient and accessible food supplies for vulnerable populations.
Reducing food waste : Promoting the recovery of organic waste through composting, thereby reducing waste and generating economic and environmental benefits.
6. Monitoring, evaluation and sustainability
Impact monitoring : Establish an ongoing monitoring system to assess the effects of biochar and compost on soil health, agricultural productivity and community well-being.
Evaluation and adjustment : Regularly evaluate strategies and adjust actions based on results, thus ensuring the long-term sustainability of the project.
7. Access to financing and resources
Seeking strategic alliances : Collaborating with government agencies, NGOs, private companies and international organizations to obtain financial and technical support.
Microcredits and community funds : Facilitate access to microcredits for local entrepreneurs, especially women and youth, to support their initiatives related to biochar, compost and other derived products.
Conclusion
Implementing these strategies will help improve soil quality, increase agricultural productivity and strengthen food security. It will also promote a sustainable economic development model that will benefit the entire community, while promoting the empowerment of women and vulnerable groups.
Key Points:
Community organization : Training, leadership and participatory management.
Sustainable production : Biochar and compost for fertile soils and resilient agriculture.
Social inclusion : Active participation of women and local farmers.
Food security : Effective management of resources for vulnerable populations.
Sustainability : Monitoring, evaluation and access to financing for long-term impact.
Expected Impacts
1. Environmental Impact
Improving soil quality : Through the use of biochar and compost , soils become more fertile and resilient.
Carbon sequestration : Reducing greenhouse gas emissions and contributing to the fight against climate change.
Biodiversity conservation : Restoration of local ecosystems and recovery of degraded lands.
2. Impact Social
Empowerment of rural women : Strengthening their role in decision-making and their economic independence through their active participation in the project.
Improving quality of life : Distribution of sustainably produced food to vulnerable populations, thereby strengthening food security.
Creation of collaborative networks : Strengthening links between farmers and breeders, promoting solidarity and the sharing of knowledge.
3. Economic Impact
Increased productivity : Adoption of sustainable agricultural practices that improve producer yields and profitability.
Access to new markets : Commercialization of biochar , compost and other sustainable products, generating additional income for communities.
Diversification of sources of income : Reduction of dependence on a single economic activity through the recovery of waste and local resources.
4. Cultural Impact
Strengthening local identity : Promoting traditional agricultural and livestock farming practices, adapted to a sustainable approach.
Transmission of knowledge : Preservation and sharing of ancestral knowledge while integrating modern innovations.
Conclusion
These expected impacts demonstrate how the project contributes to holistic development , combining environmental preservation, social inclusion, economic growth and cultural enhancement. By combining sustainable practices and active community participation, this project aims to create a replicable model for other regions.
Key Points:
Environment : Fertile soils, carbon sequestration and preserved biodiversity.
Social : Women’s empowerment, food security and collaborative networks.
Economic : Increased productivity, income diversification and access to markets.
Cultural : Preserving traditions and strengthening local identity.
Project Components
1. Agricultural and Livestock Production Zone
Sustainable livestock farming : Implementation of environmentally friendly practices, such as optimized pasture management, crop rotation and the recovery of organic waste.
Sustainable crops : Introduction of crops that contribute to soil regeneration , combined with innovative technologies such as efficient irrigation and agroforestry .
2. Technology for Biochar Production
Construction of ovens or pyrolysis systems : Transformation of organic waste (manure, crop residues, etc.) into biochar , a carbon-rich amendment for soils.
Technical training : Raising awareness among farmers and breeders of the benefits of biochar to improve soil fertility and generate additional income.
3. Composting and Organic Waste Management
Composting Units : Installation of systems to convert organic waste into high-quality compost , used to enrich soils and restore degraded land.
Waste recovery : Reducing agricultural waste and improving resource circularity.
4. Rural Women’s Network and Community Management
Training and education : Capacity building of women in natural resource management, biochar and compost production, and active participation in project decisions.
Creation of cooperatives : Establishment of collaborative structures for food management and the marketing of sustainable products.
5. Capacity Development and Training
Continuing Education Programs : Training farmers, ranchers and communities on sustainable agricultural practices, circular economy, fair trade and community leadership.
Awareness : Promoting the benefits of regenerative agriculture and innovative techniques.
6. Integration into Value Chains and Market Access
Inclusion in commercial networks : Facilitating producers’ access to local and regional markets for the sale of organic and sustainable products.
Collaboration with NGOs and government entities : Partnerships to provide food to vulnerable populations and promote responsible consumption models.
Conclusion
These components form an integrated system aimed at improving agricultural productivity, natural resource management and the resilience of local communities. By combining sustainable practices, innovative technologies and active participation of women and farmers, this project contributes to balanced economic and environmental development.
Key Points:
Sustainable production : Environmentally friendly agriculture and livestock farming.
Innovative technologies : Production of biochar and composting to enrich soils.
Social inclusion : Strengthening the capacities of women and rural communities.
Continuing education : Education on sustainable practices and the circular economy.
Access to markets : Integration into value chains for organic and sustainable products.
Potential Partners and Collaborators
To ensure the success and sustainability of the project, collaboration with various key stakeholders is essential. Here are the potential partners identified:
1. Local and Regional Government
Role : Institutional support, financing, and implementation of policies favorable to rural development and sustainable agriculture.
Contributions : Access to grants, logistical support, and integration of the project into local development plans.
2. Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
Role : Expertise in rural development, sustainable agricultural practices and community capacity building.
Contributions : Implementation of training programs, technical support, and facilitation of links between communities and other partners.
3. Educational Institutions and Universities
Role : Research, innovation and technical training.
Contributions : Conducting studies on environmental and social impacts, developing adapted technologies, and training farmers and breeders.
4. Companies in the Agri-Food Sector
Role : Support for sustainable practices and integration of products into value chains.
Contributions : Investment in sustainable infrastructure, purchase of local products, and promotion of environmentally friendly practices.
Impact of the Project
This type of project is not limited to improving agricultural and livestock practices. It also contributes to:
Strengthening the social fabric : Particularly through the empowerment of rural women, who play a central role in resource management and production.
Promoting sustainability : By combining environmental benefits (soil restoration, reduced carbon emissions) and economic benefits (increased income, diversification of activities).
Conclusion
Collaboration with diverse and committed partners is essential to maximize the impact of the project. By combining the efforts of governments, NGOs, educational institutions and businesses, this project aims to create an inclusive , sustainable and replicable rural development model .
Key Points:
Strategic partnerships : Governments, NGOs, universities and agri-food companies.
Social impact : Empowerment of rural women and strengthening of communities.
Sustainability : Long-term environmental and economic benefits.
Implementation Strategies
Phase 1: Community Diagnosis and Planning
Objective : Identify local resources, specific needs and key actors in each community.
Activities :
Conducting field studies to assess available resources (land, water, labor, etc.).
Consulting communities to understand their priorities and expectations.
Development of a detailed action plan, in collaboration with local stakeholders.
Phase 2: Technical Training and Implementation of Infrastructure
Objective : To strengthen the capacities of producers and women’s associations, and install the necessary infrastructure.
Activities :
Training farmers and breeders on sustainable agricultural practices, biochar and compost production .
Creation and strengthening of women’s associations for their active participation in the project.
Installation of biochar production and composting units.
Phase 3: Establishing a Marketing Network
Objective : Facilitate access to markets and integrate products into sustainable value chains.
Activities :
Identification of local, regional and international markets for sustainable products (biochar, compost, agricultural products).
Building partnerships with buyers, distributors and fair trade organizations.
Implementing marketing strategies to promote products to consumers.
Phase 4: Evaluation and Continuous Monitoring
Objective : To measure the impact of the project on environmental, social and economic levels.
Activities :
Establishment of a monitoring and evaluation system to collect data on project performance.
Analysis of results to identify successes, challenges and areas for improvement.
Adjustment of strategies based on feedback and changes in the local context.
Conclusion
This four-phase approach ensures a progressive and structured implementation of the project. By combining diagnosis, training, marketing and evaluation, the project aims to maximize its impact while adapting to the needs of local communities.
Key Points:
Diagnosis and planning : Identify local resources and needs.
Training and infrastructure : Strengthen capacities and install production units.
Marketing : Integrating products into sustainable value chains.
Evaluation and monitoring : Measure impact and adjust strategies for continuous improvement.
Gains
3. Gains
The estimated profit of the project is US$2,320,000 per year . To assess profitability, it is essential to consider both annual revenues and costs . This will help determine the financial viability of the project.
A. Annual Income
Estimated earnings : US$2,320,000 per year.
Factors influencing income : Production, product demand and market prices.
B. Profitability and Profit Margin
To estimate the profit margin, annual costs must be taken into account. Assuming that annual costs represent 60-70% of the total budget , the estimates are as follows:
Estimated annual cost 60 to 70% of the budget of $ 2,522,030 .
Estimated annual net profit :
Income: 2,320,000 US$
Costs : 2 161 740 US$
Net profit : 157,970 US$ (before taxes and financial adjustments).
4. Project Summary
Initial Investments
Budget total : 3 602 900 $ US$
Use of budget : Facilities, machines, work equipment, etc.
Estimated Annual Costs
Annual cost : 2,161,740 US$, between 2522030 US$
Cost details : Salaries, supplies, logistics, maintenance, administration.
Estimated Annual Profit
Annual net profit : 157,970 US$
Conclusion
that the project is , an estimated annual profit margin of between and US$158,260 . figures may be adjusted based on additional factors, such as :
The specific profitability of the activities of the participating companies.
The type of target market.
Actual operating costs.
In summary, the project presents attractive financial potential , while contributing to broader economic and environmental objectives.
Key Points:
Annual revenue : US$2,320,000, depending on production and demand.
Annual costs : $ 2,161,740 total budget).
Annual net profit : 157,970 US$ (before taxes).
Financial viability : The project is profitable, with positive profit margins.
Needs, Costs and Benefits
The detailed analysis of the project needs, costs and benefits is structured as follows:
1. Initial Project Data
Total area : 25 hectares
Participating companies : 4
Total project budget : 3,602,900
Project duration : 3 years
Estimated annual/initial profit : US$ 2,320,000
2. Cost Analysis
The total budget of US$ 3,602,900 will be allocated to cover the various needs of the project. Costs are divided into several key categories:
A. Installations et Machines
Machinery and equipment : Installation of machinery (tractors, combine harvesters, irrigation systems, etc.) and related infrastructure (warehouses, offices, etc.).
Estimate : 30 to 40% of the total budget.
Montant : 1 080 870 –1441160
B. Work Team
Personnel : Salaries, benefits and other costs related to hiring personnel (machine operators, managers, technicians, workers, etc.).
Estimate : 20 to 30% of the total budget.
Amount : 720 580 –1080870
C. Operational and Logistics Costs
Inputs : Fertilizers, seeds, irrigation, energy, etc.
Maintenance : Cost of maintaining machines and equipment.
Transportation and distribution : Logistics costs related to agricultural production.
Estimate : 10 to 20% of the total budget.
Amount : 360 290 – 720580
D. Administrative Expenses
Management and Coordination : Costs related to project administration, including software, legal services, marketing, etc.
Estimate : 10 to 15% of the total budget.
Amount : 360 290 – 540435
E. Other Costs
Contingencies : Provision for unforeseen events.
Estimation : 5 to 10% of the total budget.
In : 180 145360290
3. Expected Benefits
Estimated annual profit : US$2,320,000.
Return on Investment (ROI) : The project aims to generate significant revenues from the first year, with increased profitability over the three years of implementation.
Additional economic impacts : Creation of local jobs, diversification of income for farmers and ranchers, and strengthening of the local economy.
Conclusion
This analysis demonstrates that the project is financially viable and offers high profitability potential . Costs are strategically allocated to ensure efficient implementation, while the expected benefits justify the initial investment. In addition, the project will contribute to strengthening the local economy and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
Key Points:
Total budget : US$3,602,900 divided into several categories (facilities, personnel, operations, administration, contingencies).
Annual profits : US$2,320,000, with an attractive return on investment.
Economic impacts : Job creation, diversification of income and strengthening of the local economy.
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