Bekchanova, Campion, 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 improves the nutrient cycle in sandy-textured soils and increases crop yield: a systematic review. Environmental Evidence. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13750-024-00326-5

Sandy-textured soils, often challenging for crop cultivation due to poor fertility, cover 6% of Earth’s surface. To address this, the use of biochar, a product derived from 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, has gained attention for its potential in soil management. A recent study systematically reviewed the impact of biochar on nutrient cycling in sandy soils.

The study, conducted through meta-analyses of 92 articles, revealed significant positive effects of biochar on soil and plant properties. Soil total and available nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium increased by 36%, 34%, 15%, and 18%, respectively. Notably, biochar reduced N2O emissions and mineral nutrient leachingLeaching is the process where nutrients are dissolved and carried away from the soil by water. This can lead to nutrient depletion and environmental pollution. Biochar can help reduce leaching by improving nutrient retention in the soil.   More by 29% and 38%. However, it had no significant effect on soil mineral nitrogen and nutrient use efficiencyNutrient use efficiency refers to how effectively plants can take up and utilize nutrients from the soil. Biochar can improve nutrient use efficiency by enhancing nutrient availability and retention in the soil.   More.

The review highlighted that biochar’s effectiveness varied based on factors like the continent of application, biochar rate, and 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. Stronger responses were observed in South America, with higher application rates and in soils with higher pH.

The study not only contributed new insights but also employed a comprehensive methodology, including in-depth analysis of publication bias. Stakeholder engagement, particularly in the BASTA project, emphasized the need for such reviews, aiding policymakers, biochar producers, and farmers in making informed decisions.

Despite the positive impacts, challenges and ambiguities remain. The study calls for continued research, acknowledging the complexity of interactions between biochar characteristics and sandy soil properties. By narrowing down its focus on the nutrient cycle of sandy-textured soils, this systematic review provides a valuable roadmap for future studies, reducing uncertainty and aiding policymakers and stakeholders in optimizing biochar applications for sustainable land use.