{"id":1524,"date":"2026-03-23T15:44:22","date_gmt":"2026-03-23T14:44:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sites.unica.it\/hydrochar\/?page_id=1524"},"modified":"2026-03-27T12:34:50","modified_gmt":"2026-03-27T11:34:50","slug":"regulatory-framework","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/sites.unica.it\/hydrochar\/wikichar\/regulatory-framework\/","title":{"rendered":"Regulatory Framework"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><em>Exploring the regulatory landscape governing hydrochar applications across regions<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator aligncenter has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-wide\" \/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Introduction<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>This page outlines the legal framework governing the use of <a href=\"https:\/\/sites.unica.it\/hydrochar\/wikichar\/hydrothermal-processes-htp\/hydrothermal-carbonization-htc\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"118\">hydrothermal carbonization<\/a> (HTC) products (hydrochar) across different regions of the world. Only applications that, as of 2026, have been implemented at pilot or industrial scale and that, in the opinion of the working group, demonstrate potential economic viability are considered:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Hydrochar for Energy Generation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hydrochar as a Fertilizer or Soil Amendment<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hydrochar as a stable CO<sub>2<\/sub> sink for the permanent removal of CO<sub>2<\/sub> from the atmosphere<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:33.33%\">\n<div style=\"height:60px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"http:\/\/sites.unica.it\/hydrochar\/files\/2026\/03\/Regulatory-framework-1024x683.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1537\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sites.unica.it\/hydrochar\/files\/2026\/03\/Regulatory-framework-1024x683.png 1024w, https:\/\/sites.unica.it\/hydrochar\/files\/2026\/03\/Regulatory-framework-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/sites.unica.it\/hydrochar\/files\/2026\/03\/Regulatory-framework-768x512.png 768w, https:\/\/sites.unica.it\/hydrochar\/files\/2026\/03\/Regulatory-framework-1536x1024.png 1536w, https:\/\/sites.unica.it\/hydrochar\/files\/2026\/03\/Regulatory-framework-2048x1366.png 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Hydrochar for Energy Generation<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In this application, waste materials are typically utilized that would otherwise incur high disposal costs, since the hydrochar produced, due to its calorific value and ash content, generally achieves only a moderate market value compared to fossil coal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The economic viability of operating an HTC plant is achieved, on the one hand, through improved combustion characteristics (dry hydrochar instead of wet waste) and, on the other hand, through the significantly reduced mass resulting from the separation of process water. The meaningful utilization of process water (e.g., through anaerobic digestion in a biogas plant) is therefore of major importance when evaluating HTC projects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<details class=\"wp-block-details is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>European Union (EU)<\/summary>\n<p>In general, Hydrochar users benefit from the fact that no CO<sub>2<\/sub> emission certificates need to be purchased under the European Emissions Trading System (ETS) for its combustion. These additional savings, which depend on the market price of emission certificates, improve overall economic viability. Country-specific CO<sub>2<\/sub> taxes may further increase market value, as is the case, for example, in Germany and Sweden.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, under European directives, waste only ceases to be classified as waste upon incineration. As a result, incineration plants must hold an authority permit for the accepting of such waste materials as input. This creates a buyer\u2019s market, often leading to negative prices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In principle, the European Waste Framework Directive 2008\/98\/EC provides that waste may cease to be waste under certain conditions. The following criteria must be met:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol style=\"list-style-type:lower-alpha\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>the substance or object is commonly used for specific purposes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>a market or demand exists for such a substance or object with a positive market price<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the substance or object fulfills the technical requirements for specific purposes and complies with applicable legislation and standards for products<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the use of the substance or object will not lead to overall adverse environmental or human health impacts<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Although these criteria have been in place since 2008, they have so far been implemented in only a few applications, such as compost production or certain construction materials. A successful end-of-waste (EoW) assessment would, however, open the market to a broader range of Hydrochar users and significantly improve the economic prospects of HTC projects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Initial progress in defining EoW criteria for hydrochar has been achieved in Italy with the Hydrochar Standard UNI 11853. This standard specifies quality criteria for hydrochar derived from sewage sludge for energy recovery. In parallel, ISO is currently developing a Biochar standard, which could potentially be extended to hydrochar in the future, offering an additional accepted quality standard to support End-of-Waste applications.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<details class=\"wp-block-details is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>United States of America (USA)<\/summary>\n<p>Unlike the EU, there is no nationwide or multinational emissions trading system in the United States that directly benefits the use of hydrochar as a solid fuel. However, regional programs and state-specific policies exist that align with emissions reductions from biomass-derived fuels. For example, the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, or RGGI, is a regional cap-and-trade program that limits CO<sub>2<\/sub> emissions from electric power generators. RGGI is primarily a Northeastern regional program; as of November 2025, RGGI has 10 active member states (CT, DE, ME, MD, MA, NH, NJ, NY, RI, VT). Pennsylvania, only joining in 2022, formally withdrew from RGGI in November 2025. The Western Climate Initiative is another similar emissions trading program between California, Washington, and Quebec.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>RGGI regulates carbon dioxide emissions from power plants rather than fuels themselves. If hydrochar combustion emissions are classified as biogenic, they may not require allowance purchases under the program. Hydrochar would likely be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, considering feedstock origin and lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions when determining its CO<sub>2<\/sub> accounting treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In some states, electricity generated from biomass-derived fuels may qualify for Renewable Energy Credits under Renewable Portfolio Standards. Eligibility of Hydrochar for these programs depends on feedstock origin and state-specific biomass definitions, which vary considerably across U.S. jurisdictions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Unlike the EU, there is no equivalent EoW designation. The waste status of Hydrochar is dictated by origin, Hydrochar characteristics, and most importantly individual state waste permitting. For example, in the state of Pennsylvania, agricultural residues and food wastes are treated differently depending on their origin, transportation, and how they\u2019re processed or discarded. The waste designation of the feedstock prior to HTC is a primary differentiator in how the Hydrochar will be designated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For residual- and municipal waste-based Hydrochar to be used as an alternative solid fuel, it must meet certain characteristics. In some state waste programs, including Pennsylvania, alternative fuels derived from residual waste may need to demonstrate minimum heating values (often around 5,000 BTU\/lb) to qualify for beneficial use as a fuel. Other waste-derived fuels are already used in the United States in cement kilns and industrial boilers, demonstrating that regulatory pathways exist for alternative solid fuels derived from waste streams. Hydrochar would likely be evaluated within similar permitting frameworks depending on feedstock origin and fuel characteristics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The classification of hydrochar combustion units under the Clean Air Act is also a major regulatory determinant. If hydrochar is considered a solid waste rather than a fuel, combustion units may be regulated as Commercial and Industrial Solid Waste Incinerators (CISWI), which imposes significantly more stringent air emission requirements. If hydrochar is generated from hazardous waste and maintains hazardous waste status, it can only be used as a fuel in boilers and industrial furnaces regulated under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Overall, the U.S.A. regulatory framework treats hydrochar primarily through waste and air permitting regimes rather than through integrated carbon and product policy, resulting in greater regulatory variability across states compared with the European Union and greater dependence on feedstock classification.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Hydrochar as a Fertilizer<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In this application, hydrochar is considered as a fertilizer or soil amendment, enabling the recycling of nutrients from organic waste streams. Depending on the feedstock and process conditions, the resulting material may contribute to improved soil properties, such as water retention, carbon content, and, in some cases, nutrient availability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, the agronomic value of hydrochar can vary significantly, and its application requires careful assessment of potential risks, including the presence of contaminants and the stability of organic compounds. For this reason, regulatory frameworks play a key role in defining quality standards, permissible application rates, and safety requirements for its use in agricultural systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<details class=\"wp-block-details is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>European Union (EU)<\/summary>\n<p>EU Regulation 2019\/1009 lays down rules for making fertilizing products available on the EU market. A CE mark may be affixed by the manufacturer if:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>the requirements of the PFC (Product Function Category),<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the requirements of the CMC (Component Material Category), and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the labeling requirements<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>are fulfilled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In such cases, end-of-waste status is also achieved. To this end, conformity assessment requirements must be met by the manufacturer, the scope of which depends on the applicable PFC and CMC categories.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Novel to this regulation is the inclusion of organic and organo-mineral fertilizers, soil improvers, inhibitors (which slow or inhibit the activity of microorganisms or enzymes responsible for nutrient release from fertilizers), bio stimulants (which enhance nutrient uptake, increase tolerance to abiotic stress, improve quality characteristics, and\/or enhance nutrient availability in soil or the root zone), growing media (other than in-situ soil for growing plants and mushrooms), and mixtures thereof. The regulation also introduces, for the first time, EU-wide limits for contaminants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Animal by-products and manure may only be used as input materials for certain CMC categories once the so-called \u201cEnd Point\u201d under the Animal By-Products Regulation (EC) No. 1069\/2009 has been reached. Since this essentially requires sterilization, which is reliably achieved under HTC process conditions, HTC presents a potential application pathway here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The product category most comparable to HTC is CMC 14 \u201cPyrolysis and Gasification Materials.\u201d For this, the use of mixed municipal waste, sewage sludge, industrial sludge, dredging sludge, and animal by-products as input materials is excluded.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a technical requirement for the production of such CMC14 materials, a process temperature above 180 \u00b0C under oxygen-limited conditions is specified. In addition to compliance with certain contaminant concentration limits, a molar ratio of hydrogen (H) to organic carbon (C<sub>org<\/sub>) of less than 0.7 is required. This threshold, however, is generally not achieved under standard HTC conditions.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<details class=\"wp-block-details is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>United States of America (USA)<\/summary>\n<p>There is no nationwide framework equivalent to the EU\u2019s 2019\/1009 or CE marking system. As a result, hydrochar use as a fertilizer or soil amendment is primarily regulated at the state level. The regulatory treatment of Hydrochar depends on the origin of the feedstock, Hydrochar characteristics and most importantly, the applicable state regulatory programs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The primary targeted feedstock for HTC in U.S.A. is municipal sewage sludge. If hydrochar is generated from municipal sewage sludge (biosolids), then EPA\u2019s 40 CFR Part 503 governs land application, while additional restrictions may be imposed at the state level. Part 503 regulates three primary metrics for biosolids intended for land application:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>pathogen reduction through time and temperature requirements;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>vector attraction reduction typically demonstrated through volatile solids reduction or stabilization;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>maximum allowable heavy metal concentrations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Part 503 was developed to regulate biosolids directly, and its applicability to thermally converted products such as Hydrochar may depend on whether regulators consider the product to remain a biosolid or to constitute a new material. In practice, state agencies often evaluate derived products on a case-by-case basis to determine whether Part 503 standards remain applicable or whether additional permitting or beneficial use determinations are required. Recent regulatory developments at the state level have focused on PFAS concentrations. Several states have introduced monitoring requirements or limits for PFAS in land-applied biosolids.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When Hydrochar is marketed as a fertilizer, regulation is primarily handled by state departments of agriculture, with rules largely based on regulations developed by Association of American Plant Food Control Officials (AAPFCO). AAPFCO defines biochar as a product with \u00b360% carbon produced by thermochemical conversion of biomass in limited oxygen environment. If Hydrochar can meet this standard, its regulation may benefit in terms of decreased scrutiny, waste classification, carbon credit eligibility, and trust\/adoption by farmers. A key requirement is the nutrient guarantee, which must list minimum levels of primary nutrients, nitrogen (N), phosphate (P<sub>2<\/sub>O<sub>5<\/sub>), and potash (K<sub>2<\/sub>O). If secondary nutrients are present in sufficient quantities, those may also be listed. States also regulate contaminants like heavy metals. Products must typically be registered with the state prior to sale, and analytical data must support all nutrient claims.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If Hydrochar is instead marketed as a soil amendment or soil conditioner, regulatory requirements may differ. In these cases, the product is evaluated based on its ability to improve physical, chemical, or biological soil properties rather than its nutrient content. Depending on the state, additional testing for contaminants or agronomic performance may be required, particularly for products derived from waste-based feedstocks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In some states, Hydrochar derived from waste or residuals require approval under beneficial use determination (BUD) programs, which allow waste-derived materials to be reused outside of traditional disposal pathways. BUD programs are similar to EoW determinations in the EU, but they are typically only granted for individual projects and require application for each new installation and waste-derived product.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Overall, the U.S.A. regulatory framework for hydrochar used as a fertilizer or soil amendment is defined primarily through a combination of state fertilizer regulations, biosolids management rules when applicable, and waste beneficial use programs. Rather than relying on a harmonized national product standard, regulatory approval typically depends on feedstock origin, product characteristics, and the intended use of the material. This decentralized structure creates greater variability in regulatory pathways and timelines across states compared with the European Union, where defined product categories and end-of-waste provisions provide a more consistent route to market.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Hydrochar for Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Hydrochar is increasingly being explored as a carbon dioxide removal (CDR) pathway due to its potential for long-term carbon storage. Through <a href=\"https:\/\/sites.unica.it\/hydrochar\/wikichar\/hydrothermal-processes-htp\/hydrothermal-carbonization-htc\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"118\">hydrothermal carbonization<\/a>, biogenic carbon can be stabilized and retained in a solid form, enabling its application as a durable carbon sink.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<details class=\"wp-block-details is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>European Union (EU)<\/summary>\n<p>As of December 2024, Regulation (EU) 2024\/3012 on permanent carbon removals, carbon farming, and carbon storage in products (CRCF) has entered into force in the European Union.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This regulation establishes a framework for certifying projects as permanent carbon removal technologies. Any practice or process that, under normal circumstances and using appropriate management practices, captures and stores atmospheric or biogenic carbon for several centuries is eligible (Article 2, Point 9).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Projects may also be certified under carbon farming or carbon storage in products. In the latter case, CO<sub>2<\/sub> capture and storage must be achieved, monitored, and regularly certified for at least 35 years in long-lasting products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Certification of CDR projects requires compliance with the following quality criteria:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"1\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Quantification of the permanent net carbon removal benefit;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Additionality;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Storage, monitoring, and liability;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sustainability.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>In February 2026, the European Commission adopted the first set of methodologies under the CRCF Regulation to certify permanent carbon removal technologies selected for their technological maturity and potential contribution to the EU\u2019s climate objectives:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Direct Air Capture with Carbon Storage (DACCS)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Biogenic Emissions Capture with Carbon Storage (BioCCS)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Biochar Carbon Removal (BCR)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>For BCR, a process temperature above 350 \u00b0C is required, among other criteria. For soil application, the provisions of EU Fertilizer Regulation (EU) 2019\/1009 apply.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For calculating permanence, two methods are accepted:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>random reflectance assessment following thermal removal of the reactive organic carbon fraction, or<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>measurement of the H\/C<sub>org<\/sub> ratio combined with a decay function dependent on the expected storage temperature.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The European Commission is currently finalizing two additional delegated regulations for certification methodologies, with adoption expected in 2026:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Methodologies for carbon storage in bio-based construction products, enabling building owners to demonstrate the carbon storage performance of their buildings and encouraging the construction sector to adopt circular bioeconomy principles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Carbon farming methodologies covering activities such as agriculture and agroforestry, peatland rewetting, and afforestation. These methodologies will enable farmers and foresters to receive results-based payments, supplementing their income and supporting the transition toward more resilient production systems.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<details class=\"wp-block-details is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>United States of America (USA)<\/summary>\n<p>In the United States of America, there is currently no federal framework equivalent to the EU\u2019s CRCF regulation for certifying Hydrochar as a carbon removal product. Hydrochar-based CDR is therefore recognized primarily through voluntary carbon markets rather than through tax incentives or federal programs. Currently, the only pathway to Hydrochar CDR recognition is through the voluntary market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The most significant federal incentive is the Section 45Q tax credit, which provides financial support for projects that capture and permanently store gaseous CO<sub>2<\/sub>. Eligible pathways include Direct Air Capture with Carbon Storage (DACCS) and Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS), but the credit is generally not applicable to solid carbon products such as Hydrochar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Federal funding programs, including the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (2021) and the Inflation Reduction Act (2022), provided support for low-carbon technologies and carbon sequestration initiatives. Funding priorities and program focus are set by the current administration, and may evolve over time, influencing which low-carbon, or carbon removal approaches receive federal support.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The voluntary market is the largest driver of carbon sequestration projects in the U.S.A. Hydrochar projects seeking recognition in the voluntary market must follow a validated methodology published by a carbon registry, such as Verra or Puro.earth. Projects are subject to third-party verification and must meet monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) requirements before carbon removal credits can be issued. Typical quality criteria include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"1\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Quantification of net carbon removal;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Demonstration of additionality;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Assurance of long-term carbon storage;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Environmental sustainability considerations.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>The most established CDR project in the voluntary market is biochar-based carbon sequestration, either through land application or burial. To qualify as stable biocarbon, a H\/C<sub>org<\/sub> ratio of 0.7 must be met. As mentioned previously, this threshold is not met by HTC conditions. Other potential Hydrochar applications include deep well injection or encapsulation in impermeable materials for underground storage. Voluntary markets provide the most immediate and flexible pathway for Hydrochar to achieve recognized carbon removal credits, with registries developing emerging methodologies to support these approaches.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udcd6 References<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">EU Regulatory Framework<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>[1] European Parliament and Council (2024). Regulation (EU) 2024\/3012 establishing a Union certification framework for permanent carbon removals, carbon farming and carbon storage in products. Official Journal of the European Union, L, 6 December 2024. <a href=\"https:\/\/eur-lex.europa.eu\/eli\/reg\/2024\/3012\/oj\">https:\/\/eur-lex.europa.eu\/eli\/reg\/2024\/3012\/oj<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>[2] European Commission (2026). EU Sets World\u2019s First Voluntary Standard for Permanent Carbon Removals. Press Release, 3 February 2026. <a href=\"https:\/\/climate.ec.europa.eu\/news-other-reads\/news\/eu-sets-worlds-first-voluntary-standard-permanent-carbon-removals-2026-02-03_en\">https:\/\/climate.ec.europa.eu\/news-other-reads\/news\/eu-sets-worlds-first-voluntary-standard-permanent-carbon-removals-2026-02-03_en<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>[3] European Parliament and Council (2019). Regulation (EU) 2019\/1009 laying down rules on the making available on the market of EU fertilising products. Official Journal, 25 June 2019. <a href=\"https:\/\/eur-lex.europa.eu\/eli\/reg\/2019\/1009\/oj\/eng\">https:\/\/eur-lex.europa.eu\/eli\/reg\/2019\/1009\/oj\/eng<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>[4] European Parliament and Council (2008). Directive 2008\/98\/EC on waste (Waste Framework Directive). Official Journal, 22 November 2008. <a href=\"https:\/\/eur-lex.europa.eu\/eli\/dir\/2008\/98\/oj\/eng\">https:\/\/eur-lex.europa.eu\/eli\/dir\/2008\/98\/oj\/eng<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>[5] UNI 11853:2022 (Italy). Hydrochar from sewage sludge for energy recovery \u2014 Requirements and test methods. Ente Nazionale Italiano di Normazione. <a href=\"https:\/\/store.uni.com\/uni-11853-2022\">https:\/\/store.uni.com\/uni-11853-2022<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">USA Regulatory Framework<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>[6] Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (2025\/2026). RGGI Program Overview and Member States. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rggi.org\">https:\/\/www.rggi.org<\/a> (Active members as of November 2025: CT, DE, ME, MD, MA, NH, NJ, NY, RI, VT.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>[7] NRDC (2025). Unprecedented: Pennsylvania\u2019s RGGI Repeal. December 2025. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nrdc.org\/bio\/robert-routh\/unprecedented-pennsylvanias-rggi-repeal\">https:\/\/www.nrdc.org\/bio\/robert-routh\/unprecedented-pennsylvanias-rggi-repeal<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>[8] WCI, Inc. (2026). Participating Jurisdictions: California, Quebec, Washington. <a href=\"https:\/\/wci-inc.org\">https:\/\/wci-inc.org<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>[9] U.S. Internal Revenue Code, 26 U.S.C. \u00a745Q \u2014 Credit for carbon oxide sequestration (as amended by the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, P.L. 117-169, and the One Big Beautiful Bill, P.L. 119-21, 2025).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>[10] U.S. EPA (2023). 40 CFR Part 503 \u2014 Standards for the Use or Disposal of Sewage Sludge. Electronic Code of Federal Regulations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>[11] AAPFCO (current edition). Official Publication \u2014 Model Bill and Definition of Biochar. Association of American Plant Food Control Officials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>[12] Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (Bipartisan Infrastructure Law), P.L. 117-58, signed 15 November 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>[13] Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, P.L. 117-169, signed 16 August 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Scientific Literature on HTC and Hydrochar<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>[14] Libra, J.A., R\u00f6s, K.S., Kammann, C., Funke, A., Berge, N.D., Neubauer, Y., et al. (2011). Hydrothermal carbonization of biomass residuals: a comparative review of the chemistry, processes and applications of wet and dry pyrolysis. Biofuels, 2(1), 71\u2013106. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.4155\/bfs.10.81\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.4155\/bfs.10.81<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>[15] Kambo, H.S., &amp; Dutta, A. (2015). A comparative review of biochar and hydrochar in terms of production, physico-chemical properties and applications. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 45, 359\u2013378. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.rser.2015.01.050\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.rser.2015.01.050<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>[16] Reza, M.T., Lynam, J.G., Uddin, M.H., &amp; Coronella, C.J. (2013). Hydrothermal carbonization: Fate of inorganics. Biomass and Bioenergy, 49, 86\u201394. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.biombioe.2012.12.004\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.biombioe.2012.12.004<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>[17] Wiedner, K., Rumpel, C., Steiner, C., Pozzi, A., Maas, R., &amp; Glaser, B. (2013). Chemical evaluation of chars produced by thermochemical conversion of agro-industrial biomass on a commercial scale. Biomass and Bioenergy, 59, 264\u2013278. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.biombioe.2013.08.026\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.biombioe.2013.08.026<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>[18] Bates, T., &amp; Lazicki, P. (2022). When is biochar not biochar? Criteria for qualifying biochar and related materials. GCB Bioenergy, 14(6), 653\u2013659. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1111\/gcbb.12935\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1111\/gcbb.12935<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Carbon Markets and CDR<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>[19] Carbon Gap Tracker (2026). EU CRCF Explained: Inside the EU\u2019s Carbon Removal Certification Framework. <a href=\"https:\/\/tracker.carbongap.org\/policy\/crcf\/\">https:\/\/tracker.carbongap.org\/policy\/crcf\/<\/a> (accessed March 2026)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>[20] Abatable (2026). EU Adopts First CRCF Methodologies \u2013 How Does This Impact the VCM? February 2026. <a href=\"https:\/\/abatable.com\/blog\/eu-adopts-first-crcf-methodologies\/\">https:\/\/abatable.com\/blog\/eu-adopts-first-crcf-methodologies\/<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>[21] Verra (current). VCS Methodology VM0044 \u2013 Biochar for Soil Carbon Sequestration. <a href=\"https:\/\/verra.org\">https:\/\/verra.org<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>[22] Puro.earth (current). Biochar Carbon Removal Methodology. <a href=\"https:\/\/puro.earth\">https:\/\/puro.earth<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-contrast-color has-text-color is-vertical is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-84c28ab9 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"min-height:40vh;margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--60);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50)\"><div style=\"margin-bottom:6px;\" class=\"aligncenter wp-block-site-logo\"><a href=\"https:\/\/sites.unica.it\/hydrochar\/\" class=\"custom-logo-link\" rel=\"home\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"272\" height=\"103\" src=\"https:\/\/sites.unica.it\/hydrochar\/files\/2025\/11\/logoTEXT_new-scaled.png\" class=\"custom-logo\" alt=\"Hydrochar Network\" srcset=\"https:\/\/sites.unica.it\/hydrochar\/files\/2025\/11\/logoTEXT_new-scaled.png 2560w, https:\/\/sites.unica.it\/hydrochar\/files\/2025\/11\/logoTEXT_new-300x114.png 300w, https:\/\/sites.unica.it\/hydrochar\/files\/2025\/11\/logoTEXT_new-1024x389.png 1024w, https:\/\/sites.unica.it\/hydrochar\/files\/2025\/11\/logoTEXT_new-768x292.png 768w, https:\/\/sites.unica.it\/hydrochar\/files\/2025\/11\/logoTEXT_new-1536x583.png 1536w, https:\/\/sites.unica.it\/hydrochar\/files\/2025\/11\/logoTEXT_new-2048x777.png 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 272px) 100vw, 272px\" \/><\/a><\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size\">Follow us:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-social-links has-normal-icon-size is-style-logos-only is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-social-links-is-layout-65900438 wp-block-social-links-is-layout-flex\"><li class=\"wp-social-link wp-social-link-linkedin  wp-block-social-link\"><a href=\"https:\/\/linkedin.com\/company\/hydrochar-network\" class=\"wp-block-social-link-anchor\"><svg width=\"24\" height=\"24\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.1\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><path d=\"M19.7,3H4.3C3.582,3,3,3.582,3,4.3v15.4C3,20.418,3.582,21,4.3,21h15.4c0.718,0,1.3-0.582,1.3-1.3V4.3 C21,3.582,20.418,3,19.7,3z M8.339,18.338H5.667v-8.59h2.672V18.338z M7.004,8.574c-0.857,0-1.549-0.694-1.549-1.548 c0-0.855,0.691-1.548,1.549-1.548c0.854,0,1.547,0.694,1.547,1.548C8.551,7.881,7.858,8.574,7.004,8.574z M18.339,18.338h-2.669 v-4.177c0-0.996-0.017-2.278-1.387-2.278c-1.389,0-1.601,1.086-1.601,2.206v4.249h-2.667v-8.59h2.559v1.174h0.037 c0.356-0.675,1.227-1.387,2.526-1.387c2.703,0,3.203,1.779,3.203,4.092V18.338z\"><\/path><\/svg><span class=\"wp-block-social-link-label screen-reader-text\">LinkedIn<\/span><\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Exploring the regulatory landscape governing hydrochar applications across regions Introduction This page outlines the legal framework governing the use of hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) products (hydrochar) across different regions of the world. Only applications that, as of [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3514,"featured_media":0,"parent":83,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-1524","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/sites.unica.it\/hydrochar\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1524","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/sites.unica.it\/hydrochar\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/sites.unica.it\/hydrochar\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sites.unica.it\/hydrochar\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3514"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sites.unica.it\/hydrochar\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1524"}],"version-history":[{"count":10,"href":"https:\/\/sites.unica.it\/hydrochar\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1524\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1625,"href":"https:\/\/sites.unica.it\/hydrochar\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1524\/revisions\/1625"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sites.unica.it\/hydrochar\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/83"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/sites.unica.it\/hydrochar\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1524"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}