Lin et al., in Bioresource Technology Reports, highlighted the importance 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 standards in ensuring the quality and sustainability of biochar production and application in agriculture. Biochar is a carbon-rich material produced 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 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, a process involving the thermal decomposition of organic matter in the absence of oxygen. Biochar has gained significant attention for its potential to improve soil health, enhance crop yields, and mitigate climate change. However, the quality and properties of biochar can vary widely depending on the feedstockFeedstock refers to the raw organic material used to produce biochar. This can include a wide range of materials, such as wood chips, agricultural residues, and animal manure. More and production process, which can affect its efficacy and environmental impact.  

To address these concerns, various voluntary and national biochar standards have been developed, including the International Biochar Initiative (IBI) Biochar Standards in the USA, the European Biochar Certificate (EBC) in Europe, the Biochar Quality Mandate (BQM) in the UK, the Code of Practice by the Australia New Zealand Biochar Initiative (ANZBI) Inc., the Biochar of agricultural industry standard in China (CNAIS), and the Singapore Standard (SGS). These standards provide guidelines for the sustainable production and application of biochar, ensuring its quality and safety for agricultural use.  

The standards cover various aspects of biochar production and application, including feedstock requirements, production processes, quality parameters, and labeling. They also address potential risks associated with biochar, such as heavy metal contamination and the presence of organic pollutants.   The development and implementation of biochar standards are crucial for promoting the sustainable and responsible use of biochar in agriculture. By adhering to these standards, producers and users can ensure that biochar is produced and applied in a way that benefits soil health, crop yields, and the environment.  

SOURCE: Lin, G., Wang, Y., Wu, X., Meng, J., Ok, Y. S., & Wang, C.-H. (2025). Enhancing agricultural productivity with biochar: Evaluating feedstock and quality standards. Bioresource Technology Reports, 29, 102059. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biteb.2025.102059