Biochar
Sustainable soil enhacement and long-term carbon sequestration
Understanding Biochar
Biochar is a lightweight, carbon-rich material produced through the pyrolysis of organic biomass under limited oxygen and high-temperature conditions.
This process transforms various types of organic waste, including agricultural residues and forestry waste, into a stable form of carbon, preventing its rapid decomposition and the release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
The unique physical and chemical properties of biochar, such as its high surface area and porosity, offer sustainable benefits for soil health and long-term carbon storage.
Biochar to Mitigate Climate Change
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) highlights biochar as an impactful 'negative emissions' technology, essential for Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) and climate change mitigation.
By converting biomass into biochar, this process not only secures carbon in a stable form but also offers an alternative to fossil fuels by utilising pyrolysis gases for energy. This sustainable approach significantly enhances soil quality and reduces non-CO2 greenhouse gas emissions.
Crucially, the IPCC estimates biochar's sustainable potential for CDR at up to 2 billion tons of CO2 per year, establishing it as an 'anchor' strategy for achieving global climate goals.
Biochar for Regenerative Agriculture
Biochar improves regenerative agriculture by enhancing soil structure, increasing cation exchange capacity for better nutrient availability, and enriching soil microbiome diversity. Its porous nature boosts water retention and reduces irrigation needs.
Importantly, biochar's impact on soil fertility reduces reliance on synthetic fertilisers, as it naturally makes nutrients more available to plants.
This advancement allows farmers to achieve higher yields with less chemical input, promoting sustainable and efficient farming practices.