News Summary

Google has entered into a landmark agreement with Indian startup Varaha to purchase 100,000 tons of biochar-based carbon removal credits by 2030. This deal marks Google’s largest biochar transaction and its first in India. Varaha, based in New Delhi, is pioneering efforts in producing biochar from invasive plant species, such as Prosopis Juliflora, through industrial processes. The startup aims to restore native grasslands and improve soil health while sequestering carbon. The credits will be generated from Varaha’s biochar projects in Gujarat, recognized by the carbon removal standard and registry Puro.Earth. This initiative is part of Google’s broader strategy to achieve net-zero emissions by 2030, despite its rising greenhouse gas emissions, which reached 14.3 million tons of CO₂ equivalent in 2023. Varaha, which has transitioned over 100,000 small farmers to sustainable practices, is also backed by several prominent investors, including RTP Global and Omnivore.