Artist Benjamin Von Wong has created an extraordinary installation to raise environmental awareness by constructing a nearly 20-foot-tall phoenix from biochar in Thailand. Unveiled on Earth Overshoot Day, August 1, Carbon Phoenix is designed to spotlight the unique properties of biochar, a carbon-rich black solid often referred to as man-made charcoal. Biochar is renowned for its exceptional carbon removal capabilities, accounting for over 89% of verified carbon removal credits. This inspired Von Wong to envision an installation that symbolizes the average human’s annual carbon footprint—approximately four tons. The Carbon Phoenix was brought to life with the collaboration of local bamboo farmers and biochar producers, Wong Phai, over two weeks. The phoenix’s feathers are crafted from biochar bricks made from pyrolyzed bamboo offcuts, a waste byproduct from the construction industry that would otherwise be burnt or left to decompose into CO2.

“What I think is particularly unique about this installation is that it doesn’t just highlight the problem. It also highlights a possible solution for climate change. The best part? Anyone can participate by purchasing verified carbon removal credits,” says Von Wong. The phoenix now stands in Ratchaburi as a testament to the fight against carbon emissions and the potential of biochar as a solution. Von Wong hopes this project will not only bring attention to biochar’s benefits but also inspire artists and artisans to explore biochar as a creative medium. This installation is a call to action, encouraging broader adoption and awareness of biochar to combat climate change effectively. Further details about the making of Carbon Phoenix can be found on Von Wong’s blog.