Explanation: Biochar helps increase soil porosity, making it more airy and easier to work with. This allows plant roots to penetrate deeper into the soil, leading to better anchorage and growth of the plants.
Technical details: The porous structure of biochar enhances gas exchange and allows better air circulation in the soil, which is essential for microbiological health.
Direct benefits: More aerated, fertile, and productive soils, regardless of crop type.
Improving Water and Nutrient Retention
Explanation: Biochar acts like a sponge in the soil, absorbing water and releasing it gradually, so that plants can access moisture during drought periods. It also helps to retain essential nutrients, preventing them from leaching out of the soil.
Technical details: Biochar's structure allows high absorption of water and nutrients, which it holds and releases as plants need them.
Direct benefits: Reduces the need for frequent irrigation and chemical fertilisers, saving resources and costs.
Capturing and Storing Carbon
Explanation: Through the pyrolysis process, biochar captures organic carbon from raw materials (such as plant residues), preventing it from being released into the atmosphere as CO2. This process helps reduce the carbon footprint of agricultural activities.
Technical details: Biochar is considered one of the most efficient technologies for long-term carbon storage in soil, preventing the release of greenhouse gases.
Direct benefits: Reduces the greenhouse effect, supporting carbon-neutral agricultural practices.
Regenerating Degraded Soils
Explanation: Eroded, exhausted, or salinized soils can benefit from the introduction of biochar, which improves the physical and chemical structure of the soil.
Technical details: Biochar acts as a natural remedy for degraded soils, helping restore soil structure and reducing erosion.
Direct benefits: Helps rehabilitate marginal and degraded lands, making them productive again.
Reducing the Need for Chemical Fertilisers
Explanation: Biochar helps improve fertiliser efficiency by capturing nutrients in the soil and releasing them gradually. This means farmers and gardeners can reduce the use of chemical fertilisers, protecting the environment and saving costs.
Technical details: Due to its ability to retain nutrients, biochar can increase their bioavailability and improve absorption by plants.
Direct benefits: More fertile soils with fewer artificial interventions, reducing water pollution and the impact on ecosystems.
Improving Soil Biodiversity
Explanation: Microorganisms and beneficial soil fauna thrive better in the presence of biochar, thanks to the improved environmental conditions in the soil (moisture, aeration, and nutrients).
Technical details: Biochar provides an ideal habitat for bacteria, fungi, and other beneficial microorganisms that support soil fertility.
Direct benefits: A healthier, biologically balanced soil that promotes plant growth and maintains natural ecosystems.
