University of Vigo and Inorde develop biochar solution for vineyards

The University of Vigo and Inorde, an agency of the Diputación de Ourense, are collaborating on the European project ‘Viti-Valmo’ to improve vineyard soil health and climate change resilience. The initiative focuses on using biochar—a carbon-rich material produced through pyrolysis—to enhance water retention, fertility, and carbon storage in soils.

A key innovation of the project is the use of a mobile pilot-scale furnace that allows for the transformation of vineyard waste, such as uprooted vines and pruning remains, directly in the field. This method aims to reduce transportation needs and convert agricultural waste into a useful tool for soil management.

While the project is part of a broader European network with trials in Alentejo, Portugal, and Occitania, France, the Galician experiments are currently being conducted at the ‘Pé Redondo’ plot of Adegas Martín Códax. Supported by European funds, the program is scheduled to continue until 2028.