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Impact of Biochar on Soil Health and Carbon Sequestration

ABSTRACT

The escalating concerns over global climate change, soil degradation, and declining agricultural productivity have intensified the search for sustainable solutions that enhance soil health while mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. Biochar, a stable carbon-rich material produced through pyrolysis of biomass under limited oxygen conditions, has emerged as a promising soil amendment for improving soil fertility and facilitating long-term carbon sequestration. This paper presents a comprehensive review and analysis of the impact of biochar on soil health and its role in carbon sequestration. Drawing on interdisciplinary research from soil science, agronomy, and climate studies, we evaluate biochar’s physical, chemical, and biological effects on soil properties, nutrient dynamics, and microbial activity. Additionally, we explore its potential for carbon stabilization, highlighting the mechanisms through which biochar locks carbon in soil systems for centuries. Field and laboratory studies from diverse climatic regions are examined to assess the consistency and variability of biochar’s benefits. We also discuss limitations, feedstock variability, socio-economic adoption barriers, and future research opportunities, including innovative production techniques and biochar–compost synergies. This synthesis underscores biochar’s significant potential as a dual-function solution for sustainable agriculture and climate change mitigation, contingent upon optimized production parameters and context-specific application strategies.

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