The Carbon Management Course and Regional Implementation Programme
Creating the Circular Carbon Economy in European Regions
How can European regions make better use of residual biomass, reduce CO₂ emissions, and establish new local value chains? The Carbon Management Course and Regional Implementation Programme, developed in the context of CASCADE and B4C, addresses this exact question.
The course introduces participants to the principles of the Circular Carbon Economy (CCE) and explores how residual biomass can be converted into biochar for use in long-lasting products and applications. The programme aims to transfer knowledge and support regions in developing practical carbon management approaches involving local stakeholders, enterprises, public authorities and civil society.
Central to the programme is the idea that carbon should not only be viewed as an emissions issue. Through circular value chains, biogenic carbon can become a measurable and manageable resource. Biochar plays a pivotal role in this process as it can sequester carbon in a stable form, supporting applications in agriculture, landscaping, construction, filtration, and climate-resilient urban development.
From carbon footprint to carbon handprint:
A central element of the course is the Circular Carbon Management System (CCMS). This system helps local and regional stakeholders visualise carbon flows along circular value chains, from biomass recovery and conversion to biochar, through product development, and on to long-term application.
Rather than focusing solely on reducing a carbon footprint, the CCMS introduces a broader carbon handprint approach. It helps regions understand where carbon can be retained, reused, and transformed into ecological, economic, and social value. This approach supports better decision-making and makes climate action more practical, visible and collaborative.
The programme begins with online sessions in early 2026, followed by a European collaboration week from 13–17 April 2026 in Nienburg, near Hanover. This week of face-to-face sessions will include workshops, a conference on biochar-supported climate resilience and practical sessions on regional pilot project development and the use of the CCMS.
Further online sessions will follow after the collaboration week to support participants in refining regional scenarios, developing carbon balances, receiving feedback, and preparing for certification.
Who is the course for?
The programme is relevant for individuals and organisations interested in developing regional carbon management strategies and biochar-based value chains.
- regional development actors
- municipalities and public administrations
- experts from agriculture, forestry, horticulture and construction
- sustainability and climate action professionals
- Researchers and technical experts
- Educators and vocational training professionals
- committed citizens and civil society organisations
Building regional capacity for the circular carbon economy
The Carbon Management Course and Regional Implementation Programme offers a structured pathway from learning to action. By combining expert input, practical tools, stakeholder analysis and project development, the course supports European regions in taking their first steps towards developing their own circular carbon management strategies.
Through CASCADE and B4C, participants will also become part of a wider European network working on biochar, residual biomass, circular carbon value chains, and regional climate solutions.