Biochar is charcoal used as a soil amendment for both carbon sequestration and soil health benefits.
Biochar technically defined as the solid material obtained from the thermochemical conversion of biomass in an oxygen-limited environment.
Like most charcoal, biochar is made from biomass via pyrolysis (decomposition brought about by high temperatures).
Bio char may increase the following
Soil fertility of acidic soils (low pH soils),
Agricultural productivity,
Protection against some foliar and soil-borne diseases.
Soil’s water-holding capacity,
Nutrient supply and retention.
A recent research in Ghana, an African nation proved biochar application could help promote cowpea growth and crop yield in the country as well as fight climate change impact on soil.
