The Carbon Problem

Hydrocarbon Dependency

Production of synthetic fertilizers is heavily reliant on natural gas and coal. Coal-based ammonia products have been found to have double the CO2 emissions when compared to natural gas-based production.

GHG Emissions

Global fertilizer production accounts for 2% of total GHG emissions, which is the equivalent of 450 – 500 MT CO2e annually. This is on par with the aviation industry.

Synthetic Fertilizers

The synthetic nitrogen fertilizers release N2O when applied to soils. This fertilizer derived N2O contributes to 5 – 6% of global GHG emissions and contributes to soil degradation and water contamination when used over time. N2O has ~300x stronger global warming potential in the atmosphere when compared to CO2.

~85 - 90%

of ammonia production cost and emissions come from natural gas based feedstocks.

black and orange metal machine on green grass field during daytime
black and orange metal machine on green grass field during daytime

Carbon Credit Generation

Carbon credits serve as a market-driven tool designed to encourage the decrease of greenhouse gas emissions. Each carbon credit signifies the verified avoidance, reduction, or removal of one metric tonne of carbon dioxide (CO₂) or its equivalent in other greenhouse gases. Both organizations and individuals have the option to buy carbon credits to offset emissions they are unable to eliminate immediately, thus aiding projects that provide measurable climate advantages.

Typically, carbon credit initiatives encompass the deployment of renewable energy, reforestation and afforestation efforts, enhanced waste management, methane capture, energy efficiency improvements, and soil carbon sequestration. To maintain credibility, credits are only issued after emissions reductions have been independently measured, reported, and verified in accordance with established international standards.

When utilized appropriately, carbon credits facilitate climate action by directing funds into low-carbon technologies and nature-based solutions, while assisting organizations in their journey towards emissions reduction and achieving net-zero objectives.

With the integration of biochar into the compost compounds, the area which it is applied to becomes a carbon-sink. This farm area now sequesters GHG emissions into the ground and can then be traced to generating a credit. Each credit reflects 1 tCO2e - with the total amount of compost material turned out from the facility, Pangaea is able to generate between 50,000 - 70,000 tCO2e annually of combined avoidance and storage carbon credits.

Biochar Integration

Our Commitment to Sustainability

At Pangaea, sustainability is at the core of our design, operational, and scaling processes. Our objective is to convert organic waste streams into valuable soil and agricultural inputs, thereby minimizing environmental impact while fostering long-term economic and social benefits.

We are dedicated to promoting the circular economy by redirecting organic waste from landfills and uncontrolled disposal, which helps to decrease methane emissions and return nutrients and organic carbon to productive applications. Through composting and associated biological treatment methods, we enhance soil health, improve water retention, and lessen dependence on synthetic inputs within agricultural systems.

A fundamental aspect of our sustainability strategy is empowering our partners and clients to decrease their carbon intensity (CI) scores. Through the responsible management of organic waste and the provision of stabilized, low-emissions soil amendments, Pangaea assists businesses in reducing Scope 1 and Scope 3 emissions linked to waste disposal, fertilizer application, and land management. These results directly contribute to corporate decarbonization initiatives, adherence to regulations, and reliable climate reporting.

Environmental responsibility is integral to our operational strategy. We emphasize resource efficiency, emissions reduction, and the responsible use of water and energy throughout our facilities. In instances where emissions cannot be completely eradicated, we proactively seek credible carbon reduction and offset strategies that conform to established standards and best practices.

Pangaea also acknowledges the significance of social and local impact. We collaborate closely with agricultural stakeholders, waste producers, and communities to provide practical, scalable solutions that bolster food security, land productivity, and local employment. Health, safety, and regulatory compliance are essential requirements in all our operations.

Our activities contribute to several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including:

  • SDG 2 – Zero Hunger, through improved soil fertility and agricultural productivity

  • SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production, by closing nutrient loops and valorising waste

  • SDG 13 – Climate Action, through emissions avoidance and carbon-positive land practices

  • SDG 15 – Life on Land, by enhancing soil health and supporting sustainable land use

Our sustainability approach is rooted in transparency and a commitment to continuous improvement. We pledge to assess performance, enhance processes, and embrace innovation as science, regulations, and market expectations progress. For Pangaea, sustainability is not merely a fixed objective, but an ongoing obligation that informs our decisions and long-term vision.