Hoque, et al (2024) 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 conjunction with reduced doses of mineral fertilizers increased yield attributes and yield of rice (cv. BRRI dhan29). Pakistan Journal of Botany. http://dx.doi.org/10.30848/PJB2025-1(34)

A recent study conducted at the Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science and Technology University in Bangladesh investigated the combined effect of biochar and reduced doses of mineral fertilizers on rice production. The research focused on BRRI dhan29, a widely grown rice variety in Bangladesh. The experiment included five treatments, comparing biochar application (at varying rates) with recommended doses of fertilizers.

The findings revealed that biochar (10 t/ha) combined with 50% of the recommended doses of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and sulfur (NPKS) produced comparable rice yields to the full fertilizer treatment. Specifically, this treatment led to significant improvements in key yield attributes, including plant height, number of tillers, panicle length, and grain weight. The grain yield for this treatment was 7.82 t/ha, similar to the 7.46 t/ha yield achieved with full fertilizer use.

In addition to boosting yields, biochar improved soil health by enhancing organic matter, nitrogen content, and nutrient retention. This method also holds potential for reducing dependency on chemical fertilizers, leading to more sustainable farming practices. The study concludes that integrating biochar with reduced fertilizer inputs could be an effective strategy for rice farmers, enhancing productivity while minimizing environmental impacts and reducing greenhouse gas emissions from paddy fields.

This approach not only offers economic benefits by reducing fertilizer costs but also promotes long-term soil fertility and sustainability.