In a study published in the IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science, P.O. Bako, L.F. Ishaq, M.M. Airtur, D.Y.L. Serangmo, I.N.P. Soetedjo, E.S.O. Nguru, M.J. Kapa, and R. Kase investigated the effects of rice husk 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 and tofu liquid waste organic fertilizer on soil chemical properties and soybean yield in the drylands of West Timor, Indonesia. The research revealed that applying rice husk biochar increased soybean yields by 7.98% to 23.41%, while tofu liquid waste organic fertilizer increased yields by 17.30% to 20.41% compared to the control.  

The study’s findings highlight the potential of both soil amendments to improve agricultural outcomes in this challenging environment. Rice husk biochar, produced through 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 rice husks, increased soil 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 (CEC). This is crucial because higher CEC improves the soil’s ability to retain essential nutrients. Tofu liquid waste organic fertilizer, a byproduct of tofu production, decreased soil pH due to its acidic nature but contributed valuable nutrients.  

Both amendments significantly increased soil organic carbon, total nitrogen, available phosphorus, and available potassium. These improvements in soil fertility directly translated to enhanced soybean yields. Rice husk biochar application increased soybean yields by 7.98% to 23.41%, while tofu liquid waste organic fertilizer increased yields by 17.30% to 20.41% compared to the control.  

This research underscores the importance of utilizing locally available resources to develop sustainable agricultural practices. Byproducts like rice husks and tofu waste, which often pose environmental challenges, can be transformed into valuable soil amendments. The study suggests that combining biochar and organic fertilizer could be a promising strategy for improving soil health and crop production in dryland regions, contributing to food security and environmental sustainability.  

SOURCE: Bako, P. O., Ishaq, L. F., Airtur, M. M., Serangmo, D. Y. L., Soetedjo, I. N. P., Nguru, E. S. O., Kapa, M. J., & Kase, R. (2025). The Effect of biochar and organic fertilizer application on soil chemical properties and soybean yield in dryland of West Timor, Indonesia. IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science, 1482, 012048.