Biochar, a stable, carbon-rich product 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 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, offers significant benefits for soil enhancement and carbon storage. This substance not only improves soil health but also plays a crucial role in carbon sequestration, an increasingly important process in our efforts to mitigate climate change.

The focus of recent research has been on biochar derived from cotton byproducts—a major agricultural waste product. Studies have highlighted its potential in soil reclamation and as a sustainable soil amendmentA soil amendment is any material added to the soil to enhance its physical or chemical properties, improving its suitability for plant growth. Biochar is considered a soil amendment as it can improve soil structure, water retention, nutrient availability, and microbial activity.   More strategy. Cotton byproduct-derived biochar improves soil properties, boosts crop yields, and reduces the need for fertilizers, while also locking away carbon that would otherwise contribute to atmospheric CO2 levels.

This review systematically covers the research from the past decade on this topic, exploring the biochar’s morphologic and physicochemical properties, its development trends, and its practical applications in soil health and environmental conservation. Specific attention is given to the multifunctionality of this biochar in removing contaminants like heavy metals and organic pollutants from the soil, thereby revitalizing it.

Innovations in the production and application of cotton byproduct-derived biochar have included creating composites with other materials to enhance its effectiveness and utility. For example, integrating biochar with chitosan and EDTA has produced a composite material that excels in pollutant adsorption—surpassing many traditional adsorbents.

As the global community faces critical challenges like climate change, environmental degradation, and soil erosion, the strategic use of biochar from cotton byproducts emerges as a promising solution. This article provides a foundational understanding and direction for future research aimed at maximizing the environmental and agricultural benefits of cotton byproduct-derived biochar.