Biochar production: A sustainable solution for crop residue burning and related environmental issues

The crop residue burning poses a threat to the environment and human health due to the emission of toxic gasses and particulate matter. This study examines the possibility of biochar production from corp residue and its utilization as a soil fertility enhancer and alternative fuel as a sustainable solution. The estimations of the total biochar production from major crop residues produced (wheat, rice, sugarcane, and maize) in India and the evaluation of its impact on CO(2)sequestration potential, nutrient sequestration, and improvement in crop yield were made with the available data. The estimations indicate that the biochars produced from crop residue could have high carbon (45-83%), nutrients (N: 0.3-3.2 g/kg%, P: 0.1-7.99 g/kg and K: 2.64-224 g/kg), cation exchange capacity (10.9-97.3cmol/kg), water holding capacity (41-561%) with high heat value (15-28 MJ/kg). On applying crop residue derived biochar in soil, the revenue can be generated through CO(2)sequestration ($0.29-3.63 million per year) and enhancement in crop productivity (0.02-0.94 million $/ha/year). The study advises that the production of biochar from crop residue could be beneficial not only for the environment but also for the farmers. Technological developments for biochar production at farmer levels are needed to discontinue the crop residue burning in India.

Automated summary

This study explores the possibility of producing biochar from crop residues to address the threat posed by burning on the environment and human health. By applying crop residue-derived biochar in soil, it can enhance soil fertility, improve crop yields, and generate economic benefits through CO(2) sequestration and increased productivity.