Biochar
- Biochar is charcoal used as a soil amendment for both carbon sequestration and soil health benefits.
- Biochar technically defined as the solid material obtained from the thermochemical conversion of biomass in an oxygen-limited environment.
- Like most charcoal, biochar is made from biomass via pyrolysis (decomposition brought about by high temperatures).
- Bio char may increase the following
- Soil fertility of acidic soils (low pH soils),
- Agricultural productivity,
- Protection against some foliar and soil-borne diseases.
- Soil’s water-holding capacity,
- Nutrient supply and retention.
- A recent research in Ghana, an African nation proved biochar application could help promote cowpea growth and crop yield in the country as well as fight climate change impact on soil.
