Wakefield BioChar Joins the GoChain Blockchain Network as a Signing Node

Wakefield and the GoChain Foundation (GoChain), the developer of the GoChain blockchain protocol, today announced the signing of a Node Operating Agreement whereas Wakefield is now operating a signing node in support of the global GoChain blockchain network.

As a signing node, Wakefield will be one of a maximum of fifty (50) highly reputable enterprises and organizations to run specialized servers that facilitate GoChain’s novel Proof of Reputation (PoR) consensus algorithm and to validate the blocks of transactions produced on the GoChain blockchain network. Wakefield joins other world-class organizations and entities as node signers on the GoChain network including Penn State University, Lenovo, Dish, Goldbell, the University of Nicosia, the Global Roundtable for Sustainable Beef (GRSB), the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, and The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund. Most recently, GoChain announced The Detox Project and Texas non-profit Upbring as new node signers. 

Wakefield is at the forefront of innovation in the beneficial reuse of forestry biomass and carbon industries. The company’s biochar products, developed via a pyrolysis process that thermally decomposes and transforms organic biomass sources, i.e. wood chips, plant residues, and other agricultural waste products, into a black carbon char material that today is being utilized in a variety of use cases to include as a soil conditioner, an additive in construction, plastics, paper, and textiles, in wastewater treatment, and as a carbon sink wherever the biochar products are applied. Wakefield is currently the largest producer of carbon removal certificates (CORCs) globally. Wakefield is recipient of multiple accolades; most recently, the company received the prestigious 2023 Forest Stewardship Council US Leadership Award.

In addition to its environmentally impactful and beneficial products, Wakefield is also pioneering the use of blockchain technology in biochar supply chains. Wakefield is currently utilizing Chainparency’s GoTrace blockchain-based data collection and track & trace application, running on the GoChain blockchain, to record key data elements and events; and to track the physical movement of biochar materials in Wakefield supply chains. Data collected via GoTrace can be shared with certifying bodies to validate the origination of biomass sources, ensure the integrity of biochar products, and to track the delivery and confirm final destination, i.e. farmland, where the biochar is being delivered/poured and the carbon is permanently being sequestered. Looking ahead, Wakefield is also seeking to leverage blockchain technology to further streamline and optimize operations in its supply chains. Wakefield also proudly serves on the Leadership Council of the U.S. Endowment for Forestry & Communities’ ForesTrust Network, a growing consortium of leading enterprises that are utilizing blockchain technology to advance sustainability, empower working forest communities, and ensure greater transparency in forestry and wood products supply chains.

As part of becoming a new node signer, Wakefield plans to work closely with the GoChain Foundation to support and govern the network, further drive blockchain-based innovation within Wakefield operations and supply chains, and bring greater awareness of the benefits of the GoChain blockchain and blockchain technology generally when used in forestry and agriculture product supply chains. 

“There is a fundamental need for credibility and transparency of the materials used in the products we all use in our daily lives. It’s a privilege to support the GoChain Foundation and its value to the supply chain. ” – Tom Marrero, President of Wakefield. “Wakefield’s beneficial reuse of potential waste, typically destined for a landfill, as the basis for a multi-functional carbon-rich product, is an exemplary case of upcycling. Combined with the use of blockchain technology for enhanced transparency, assurance, and claims validation purposes, Wakefield epitomizes what it means to be a global leader and innovator in forestry and woody biomass supply chains. We are incredibly proud to have Wakefield as a node validator for the GoChain network.” – Henry Ines, Steering Committee Member, GoChain Foundation