UK Biochar Research Centre

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Research Areas
International Development
Soil Ecosystem
Standards
Systems Analysis

Address

University of Edinburgh
School of GeoSciences, Crew Building
Edinburgh H9 3FF
Scotland

Website

biochar.ac.uk

Contact

Social

EXAMPLE Research

Park J, Lee H, et al (2024). Harnessing green tide Ulva biomass for carbon dioxide sequestration. Reviews in Environmental Science and Bio/Technology, 23, 1041-1061. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11157-024-09705-3

Borges BMMN, Strauss M, et al (2020). Re-use of sugarcane residue as a novel biochar fertiliser – Increased phosphorus use efficiency and plant yield. Journal of Cleaner Production, 262, 1041-1061. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2020.121406

Jorat E, Goddard MA, et al (2020). Passive CO2 removal in urban soils: Evidence from brownfield sites. Science of the Total Environment, 703, 1-9. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.135573

Since its establishment in 2009, the UK Biochar Research Centre (UKBRC) has been at the forefront of biochar research. Based within the School of GeoSciences at The University of Edinburgh, UKBRC collaborates with leading global academic institutions, industry partners, multinational companies, and SMEs, including our own spinout companies. These partnerships drive innovation and expand the practical applications of biochar across multiple disciplines.

Our research spans a wide range of applications, including:

  • Use of Biochar in Agriculture, Horticulture, and Forestry: Examining biochar’s role in improving soil fertility, enhancing crop yields, promoting sustainable land management, and supporting reforestation efforts.
  • Environmental Management and Remediation: Leveraging biochar’s ability to remediate contaminated soils, manage waste, and support ecosystem restoration efforts.
  • Biochar in Construction Materials: Exploring how biochar can be integrated into concrete, asphalt, and other building materials to enhance durability, reduce carbon footprints, and improve insulation properties.
  • Biochar in Polymers: Investigating the incorporation of biochar into polymers to create stronger, more sustainable materials for various industrial applications.
  • Use of Biochar in the Built Environment: Evaluating the role of biochar in urban planning and infrastructure, including its use in green roofs, stormwater management systems, and as a component of sustainable building practices.

The UKBRC is committed to advancing the science and practical applications of biochar, with a focus on sustainable production techniques and its diverse uses. Our multidisciplinary research supports the development of robust, science-based policies and practices that contribute to climate change mitigation and sustainable resource management.

Affiliated Researchers

Portrait of a male academic with short hair, wearing glasses and a checked shirt, against a blue background.
Ondřej Mašek

Chair of Net Zero Emission Technologies

Portrait of Ondřej Mašek, Chair of Net Zero Emission Technologies at the University of Edinburgh.
Saran Sohi

Chair of Land-based Carbon, School of Geosciences Global Agriculture and Food Systems

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Stuart Haszeldine

Professor of Sedimentary Geology and co-director, Scottish Centre for Carbon Storage

Featured Stories

  • Building a Biochar Network: Who’s Out There & How We Connect

    Building a Biochar Network: Who’s Out There & How We Connect

    The biochar community is a global network of gardeners, farmers, researchers, and policymakers. In this article, I highlight key organizations in the space, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing. If your keen to work with biochar in some way, I encourage you to engage with these networks.

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