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Why Biochar?
The natural removal of carbon dioxide and its permanent storage by the Earth system occurs through inorganic carbon and organic carbon pathways. The former involves the “mineralization” of carbon and formation of carbonate minerals, whereas the latter employs the “maceralization” or natural carbonization of biomass into the “inertinite maceral”.
Drought stress (DS) is one of the most destructive abiotic stresses that negatively affects plant growth, and yield. The intensity of DS is continuously increasing due rapid of water sources, less rainfall, and an increase in global warming. The world’s population is increasing at an alarming rate which needs a substantial increase in crop production to meet global food needs.
Biochar is produced from the thermo-chemical treatment of biomass. It’s quality and yield differ remarkably depending on the thermo-chemical technology and operational parameters deployed, which in turn influence its functionality in the agroforestry sector. In this review, different thermo-chemical technologies for biochar production such as pyrolysis (fast and slow), gasification and torrefaction were analyzed and compared.
More than two thirds of global nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions originate from soil, mainly associated withthe extensive use of nitrogen (N) fertilizers in agriculture. Although the interaction of black carbon withthe N cycle has been long recognized, the impact of biochar on N2O emissions has only recently beenstudied.
Biochar is obtained through the process of pyrolysis, which involves heating the biomass in a limited oxygen environment. The resulting decomposition of the biomass produces energy containing gases, oils, and a solid residue, or biochar, which all have a range of uses. For biochar production the process is usually adjusted so biochar is the main product.
Researchers calculate that alternative farming practices could turn staple crop production into a carbon sink and boost crop yields in China if adopted en masse.
Incorporating biochar into farm soils improves soil quality, increases productivity, and reduces chemical needs, addressing challenges like soil depletion and severe weather patterns. It aids in soil regeneration, sequesters carbon, and boosts plant growth while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Biochar, made from materials like hemp or waste wood, benefits soil health and can be used in conjunction with regenerative farming practices. Its integration offers a sustainable solution to agricultural and environmental concerns.
This paper discusses the benefits of feeding biochar to dairy cows in improving farming systems. Biochar enhances livestock health, soil fertility, and plant nutrient uptake, leading to increased milk yield and quality. A 9-month study in South Australia demonstrated a 2.2% increase in milk yield and improved soil and plant health. Financially, the overall income increased by 10.0%. Biochar reduced Na, Ca, Fe, and Si release from manure, while improving soil nutrient availability and pasture quality.
This study illustrates the combined effects of biochar and SRF on methane emission, which was significantly reduced. Further the biochar and SRF treated paddy soil exhibited the lowest methane emission rate but the highest crop yield. The results suggest that biochar may reduce methane emission by promoting methane oxidation.
