Increasing global warming and food insecurity give ample
rationale for research on biochar in view of its properties:
enhancement of soil fertility and crop productivity, soil water
retention and carbon sequestration. As a new technology the
introduction of biochar into farming faces challenges and
uncertainties, which are highlighted in the report along with
the policy implications. Biochar is a type of charcoal created
through pyrolysis of biomass. It is a carbonaceous substance
produced with the intent to apply to soil for agricultural and
environmental management. Biochar use and production can be
deemed a mere business activity that should be ruled out by the
market; however, due to multi-functionality of biochar
properties this technology has important policy implications.
Biochar can exert positive externalities, i.e. provide social
benefits in the form of carbon sequestration or reduced
agricultural water runoff, etc. Biochar, however, has not yet
been studied in its entirety, and as such its applicat