Jia, et al (2024) Effects of co-application 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 and nitrogen fertilizer on soil profile carbon and nitrogen stocks and their fractions in wheat field. Journal of Environmental Management. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.122140

A new study published in the Journal of Environmental Management explores how the co-application of biochar and nitrogen (N) fertilizer affects soil carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) stocks in wheat fields. Conducted over three years in northern China, this research evaluated different biochar (0, 20, 40 t/ha) and nitrogen (0, 180, 360 kg N/ha) rates across soil layers up to 60 cm deep.

The study revealed that combining biochar with N fertilizer significantly increased soil organic carbon (SOC) and dissolved organic carbon (DOC). SOC in topsoil (0-10 cm) and DOC in deeper soil layers (40-60 cm) were particularly responsive. Co-application also enhanced soil nitrogen fractions, particularly nitrate (NO3−-N). However, applying biochar alone reduced inorganic N in topsoil. The most beneficial combination for boosting soil carbon stocks was found to be moderate biochar (42.35 t/ha) with nitrogen application (277.78 kg/ha).

Overall, biochar and nitrogen fertilizer together improved both soil carbon and nitrogen content, with belowground 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 and SOC playing key roles in these changes. This study emphasizes the potential of biochar and nitrogen management practices to improve soil fertility, boost carbon sequestration, and enhance agricultural sustainability. Such practices are crucial for addressing global challenges related to food security and climate change.