Key Takeaways
- VGrid Energy Systems has published a new white paper: “Pyroligneous acid: Powerful benefits for the plant-soil system — and the planet.”
- The paper explores how pyroligneous acid (PA) replicates post-wildfire conditions to enhance plant growth, microbial activity, and nutrient availability.
- PA, also known as wood vinegar or liquid smoke, is derived from biomass thermal decomposition and contributes to carbon removal and renewable energy production.
- Potential annual benefits of widespread PA adoption include:
- 76.6 million metric tons of CO₂ removal.
- 64,250 gigawatts of sustainable electricity generated.
- 64 million tons of waste diverted from burning or landfills.
- 6 trillion gallons of irrigation water saved.
- 3 million tons of synthetic fertilizer reduction.
- The full white paper is available for download at persistproducts.com.
Advancing Soil Health with Pyroligneous Acid
New Research Highlights Benefits of PA
VGrid Energy Systems, a California-based renewable energy company, has released a white paper examining the benefits of pyroligneous acid (PA) in plant and soil health. The report highlights the latest research and field trials, demonstrating how PA mimics the post-wildfire environment that plants have evolved to respond to, leading to:
- Improved germination and root development.
- Enhanced soil microbiological activity.
- Increased nutrient availability.
- Greater plant stress resistance.
- Higher photosynthetic efficiency.
PA is created as a byproduct of biomass pyrolysis, gasification, or combustion and is often used in conjunction with biochar to support soil fertility.
“This white paper highlights not only the science behind PA but also its ability to equip growers with a sustainable and effective tool to address the challenge of feeding a growing global population amid increasingly limited resources,” said Jeff Norton, Vice President of Business Development at VGrid.
Scaling Carbon Removal and Renewable Energy
PA’s Role in Climate Solutions
In addition to soil health benefits, PA production aligns with sustainable agriculture and carbon removal efforts. When integrated into U.S. agriculture, PA could generate substantial environmental benefits, including:
- 76.6 million equivalent metric tons of CO₂ removed annually.
- 64,250 gigawatts of sustainable electricity produced annually.
- 64 million tons of waste diverted from burning or landfills annually.
- 6 trillion gallons of irrigation water saved annually.
- 3 million tons of synthetic fertilizers reduced annually.
Strengthening Sustainable Agriculture
VGrid Energy Systems’ research underscores PA’s potential as a scalable climate solution and an important tool for growers looking to improve soil health, water conservation, and nutrient efficiency.
With the publication of this white paper, VGrid is advancing industry awareness of pyroligneous acid’s role in regenerative agriculture, furthering its commitment to developing solutions that balance sustainability with productivity. The full report is available for download at persistproducts.com.
