Chapter 15 - Alteration of plant physiology by the application of biochar for remediation of metals

Abstract

Different anthropogenic activities along with some natural processes have severely contaminated the atmosphere that is an ongoing threat for life of the organisms. Contamination of soils with toxic metals is one such threat among different abiotic factors. It not only affected the soil chemistry and plant growth but also affected the other elements of ecosystem along with the pollution in underground water. To overcome the problem of toxic metals in soil, different strategies are being employed for better production along with the remediation of soils, but all these have some drawbacks and not cost effective. However, the new methods are being employed for toxic metal remediation that is considered environmental friendly and cost effective. In this regard the application of biochar seems to be effective means. Application of biochar due to its unique properties found helpful in the remediation of soil toxic metals. It changes soil properties such as buffering system by effecting pH, water holding capacity, and mobility of the metals in soil due to its strong binding capacity and increases the metal leaching to deeper soils; as a result, it provides a better environment for plant root growth and working. Under such conditions the plant physiology changes, and plants work under favorable conditions. Biochar application has a great impact on plant health in terms of growth and final yield due to improvement in plant physiology. This chapter is focused on the effectiveness of the use of biochar from different sources for the remediation of soil from toxic metals in parallel with its effect on plant physiology for better growth and production. The information given in the chapter will be beneficial for plant growers to decide how to obtain better growth and production along with remediation of toxic metals in the biochar-amended soil.