08 Dec, 2024
Case Study: Biochar Boosts Soil Carbon and Reduces GHG Emissions
Case Study: Biochar Boosts Soil Carbon and Reduces GHG Emissions
Comparing different soil amendments showed biochar is most effective in adding carbon to soil and reducing Greenhouse Gases
A study published in the Journal of Environmental Management shows biochar’s potential in building soil carbon and reducing GHGs. Field experiments compared biochar with other soil amendments—straw and organic manure—in its ability to positively impact soils.
Results:
The study found that biochar substantially decreased soil greenhouse gas emissions, reducing carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq) emissions by 1,089.8 kg per hectare. It boosted soil organic carbon (SOC) by 141.8% compared to soils without treatment. Biochar’s stable structure resisted biochemical breakdown and has minimal interaction with oxidizing enzymes-a characteristic not true of either manure or straw. Consequently, biochar is more effective at reducing emissions than straw or organic manure.
Source: He et al. 2024