In a recent review published in the Journal of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition, Renu Rani and Neera Garg highlight the promising role of biocharBiochar is a carbon-rich material created from biomass decomposition in low-oxygen conditions. It has important applications in environmental remediation, soil improvement, agriculture, carbon sequestration, energy storage, and sustainable materials, promoting efficiency and reducing waste in various contexts while addressing climate change challenges. More in enhancing soil fertility and plant productivity. Biochar, a carbon-rich material derived from the pyrolysisPyrolysis is a thermochemical process that converts waste biomass into bio-char, bio-oil, and pyro-gas. It offers significant advantages in waste valorization, turning low-value materials into economically valuable resources. Its versatility allows for tailored products based on operational conditions, presenting itself as a cost-effective and efficient More of various biomasses, is gaining recognition for its ability to improve soil properties, alleviate abiotic stresses, and ultimately increase crop yield. This review emphasizes that biochar application can lead to an average yield increase of 26.5 kg/ha, underscoring its potential as a valuable tool for sustainable agriculture.  

The authors explain that biochar is produced from a variety of organic wastes, including wood chips, crop residues, and organic matter from industries, through a process called pyrolysis. This process involves heating biomassBiomass is a complex biological organic or non-organic solid product derived from living or recently living organism and available naturally. Various types of wastes such as animal manure, waste paper, sludge and many industrial wastes are also treated as biomass because like natural biomass these More in a low-oxygen environment, resulting in a porous material rich in organic carbon and essential nutrients.  

The review details how biochar improves soil fertility through several mechanisms. Firstly, it enhances the soil’s physical properties by increasing porosityPorosity of biochar is a key factor in its effectiveness as a soil amendment and its ability to retain water and nutrients. Biochar’s porosity is influenced by feedstock type and pyrolysis temperature, and it plays a crucial role in microbial activity and overall soil health. Biochar More and water-holding capacity, which promotes better root growth and nutrient retention. Secondly, biochar improves the soil’s chemical properties by increasing pHpH is a measure of how acidic or alkaline a substance is. A pH of 7 is neutral, while lower pH values indicate acidity and higher values indicate alkalinity. Biochars are normally alkaline and can influence soil pH, often increasing it, which can be beneficial More and cation exchange capacity, making nutrients more available to plants.  

Moreover, biochar significantly influences the soil’s biological properties. Its porous structure provides a habitat for beneficial microorganisms, enhancing their activity and diversity. This increased microbial activity contributes to improved nutrient cycling and soil health.  

In addition to improving soil fertility, biochar also plays a crucial role in mitigating abiotic stresses in plants. It enhances plant tolerance to salinity, drought, and heavy metal contamination. Biochar’s ability to improve water retention and reduce the bioavailability of heavy metals contributes to healthier plant growth under stress conditions.  

Rani and Garg’s review concludes that biochar holds great promise for sustainable agriculture. Its ability to enhance soil fertility, promote microbial activity, and alleviate abiotic stresses makes it a valuable tool for improving crop production and ensuring long-term soil health.  

Source: Rani, R., & Garg, N. (2025). Role of Biochar in Modulating Soil Properties, Plant Productivity and Abiotic Stresses: A Review. Journal of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition.