Soil health and crop response of biochar: an updated analysis

Sustainable agriculture has been consistently challenged due to the menace of changing climate, thereby, causing depletion in carrying capacity of soil vis-a-vis agronomic response of crop. Of late, biochar has turned out to be the most promising option to address these issues. The present review takes stock of the research work accrued under varied agro-pedological conditions, highlighting the response of biochar in a soil-plant-environment continuum. The properties of biochar depended hugely on the source of feedstock and pyrolysis conditions, with its uniqueness resting with high specific surface area and stable carbon source, pre-disposing to better soil health associated crop responses. However, the current biochar recommendations for different crops are high, unless evaluated in combination with fertilizers or organic manures to address both short-term and long-term benefits through soil carbon mediated nutrient supply chain for sustainable crop performance. The role of biochar in scavenging the soil pollutants and pesticide residues, and reducing the emission of greenhouse gases has perched this carbon source with an added advantage over other conventionally used carbon sources. Authors have put forward future issues with an emphasis on the development of crop-based value-chain management of biochar.

Automated summary

Biochar has emerged as the most promising option for addressing the challenges of sustainable agriculture in the face of changing climate. Its properties, such as high specific surface area and stable carbon source, contribute to better soil health and crop responses. However, current recommendations for biochar use in different crops are high and need to be evaluated in combination with fertilizers or organic manures to achieve sustainable crop performance. Additionally, biochar has the added advantage of scavenging soil pollutants and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Future research should focus on developing crop-based value-chain management of biochar.