Riniarti, et al (2024) Quantifying the Impact 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 to Enhance Environmental Quality Through a Bibliometric Review. Proceedings of the International Conference on Medical Science and Health. https://doi.org/10.2991/978-94-6463-604-8_5

Biochar, a carbon-rich material derived from the thermal decomposition 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, has emerged as a versatile tool for addressing environmental challenges. Recent research emphasizes its potential in carbon sequestration, pollution mitigation, soil fertility enhancement, and climate change mitigation.

A bibliometric analysis of 19,822 biochar-related publications from 1890 to 2024 highlights key trends in the field. Research activity surged after 2010, driven by global interest in biochar’s environmental applications. China leads in research output, contributing over half of the total publications, followed by the United States and India. Three thematic clusters dominate biochar research:

1. Soil and Plant Growth: Studies explore how biochar improves soil quality, enhances plant growth, and sequesters carbon, supporting its role in sustainable agriculture.
2. Pollutant Removal: Research focuses on biochar’s capacity to adsorb pollutants, including heavy metals and organic contaminants, showcasing its potential for water and air purification.
3. Environmental Impacts of Black Carbon: Investigations address black carbon emissions, their sources, and effects on climate and public health.

The study reveals strong international collaboration, with prominent contributions from researchers in China, South Korea, and the United States. However, knowledge gaps remain in understanding biochar’s interactions with different soil types and its socio-economic viability.

To maximize its environmental benefits, future research should integrate biochar applications across agriculture, waste management, and climate policies, while addressing scalability and community adoption challenges.

This synthesis underscores the need for interdisciplinary approaches to make biochar a cornerstone of sustainable environmental practices.