Biochar: an organic amendment to crops and an environmental solution

Abstract

Biochar is a carbon-rich stable substance, defined as charred organic matter, produced during biomass thermochemical decomposition, and its application is currently considered as a mean of enhancing soil productivity, which is an important requirement for increasing crop yields whereas, simultaneously, it improves the quality of contaminated soil and water. However, depending on pedoclimatic conditions, its applicability exhibits negative aspects as well. It can also support biofuel production, therefore helping in reducing the demand for fossil fuels. Biochar is providing ecosystem services such as immobilization and transformation of contaminants and mitigation of climate change by sequestering carbon and reducing the release of greenhouse gases such as nitrous oxide and methane. It can further reduce waste as it could be produced from everything that contains biomass thereby assisting in waste management. Due to such wide-ranging applications, this review was conceptualized to emphasize the importance of biochar as an alternative to classic products used for energy, environmental and agricultural purposes. Based on the detailed information on the factors impacting biochar properties, the benefits and limitations of biochar, and the potential application guidelines for growers, this work aimed to help in partial achievement of multiple environmental goals and a practical recommendation to growers although its large-scale application is still controversial.