Biochar as a Versatile Resource for Achieving Sustainability in Agri-food Chains

Abstract

The agriculture sector generates a significant quantity of waste. These wastes, when mismanaged, can cause environmental issues like air, water, and soil pollution. Thus, the upcycling of agricultural wastes especially for bioenergy production would be highly advantageous. Biofuels, including biochar, biogas, biodiesel, and bioethanol, are eco-friendly fuels owing a significant contribution to the bioenergy industry. Biochar, a carbon-rich substance prepared from a wide range of feedstocks, can be produced from agricultural wastes via pyrolysis and has numerous applications. When added to soil, biochar enhances soil fertility by acting as a soil conditioner. It can also be used to purify air and wastewater and/or used for carbon sequestering, in the textile and construction industries. Moreover, biochar can also be used in the food products such as charcoal-based ice cream, and cookies besides being an animal feed improver. Furthermore, biochar has potential applications in the cosmetic industry and can address issues such as climate change, energy shortages, and food security. The use of agricultural wastes for biochar production can be a tool for low-cost bioenergy production, which could improve the financial status of local farmers. The current review emphasizes the potential of biochar as a versatile resource for achieving sustainability in agri-food chains by recycling generated waste.