The authors point to the increasing frequency and intensity of flooding in European cities, due in part to climate change and urbanisation.

Conventional stormwater management systems, based on impervious surfaces and outdated drainage systems, are proving inadequate in the face of increasing rainfall and urbanisation.

A paradigm shift towards managing rainwater at source by promoting permeable surfaces and natural infiltration is gaining momentum across Europe.

Biochar is proving to be a promising ally in this endeavour, offering numerous benefits such as water retention, soil improvement and pollutant filtration.

Thanks to its porous structure and resistance to biodegradation, biochar can effectively clean rainwater and improve soil permeability, reducing the risk of flooding and pollution.

Examples from cities such as Stockholm, Minneapolis and Helsinki show the successful integration of biochar into urban stormwater management strategies, resulting in improved water quality and ecological resilience.

In France, despite growing interest from municipalities such as Pantin, Franconville and Le Hommet-d’Arthenay, challenges such as lack of standardisation and policy frameworks are hindering the widespread adoption of biochar.

Collaboration between public administrations, scientists, the private sector and stormwater management associations is crucial to overcome these challenges and promote the sustainable use of biochar in urban areas.

The article highlights the importance of initiatives such as the Interreg NWE CASCADE project, which aims to facilitate knowledge exchange and implement sustainable carbon management solutions, including biochar-based strategies, across Northwest Europe.