Summary
This review, published in the MDPI journal Agronomy in 2025, synthesises the current state of knowledge on biochar-based fertilisers, covering feedstock selection, pyrolysis conditions, and mechanisms by which biochar enhances nutrient availability and soil physical properties. Drawing on a broad body of peer-reviewed literature, the authors assess agronomic outcomes across diverse cropping systems and climates, highlighting advances in slow-release and co-composted biochar formulations. The review also identifies research gaps and future directions, including standardisation of production protocols and scaling challenges for commercial adoption.
UK applicability
While the review is global in scope, its findings are broadly applicable to UK arable and horticultural systems, where interest in biochar as a soil amendment is growing in the context of post-CAP agricultural transition, net-zero targets, and sustainable intensification policy frameworks.
Key measures
Nutrient use efficiency (%); crop yield (t/ha); soil organic carbon (g/kg); nitrogen and phosphorus retention; pH modification; greenhouse gas emissions (CO₂, N₂O)
Outcomes reported
The review evaluates the production methods, nutrient-release mechanisms, and agronomic performance of biochar-based fertilisers across crop systems, summarising evidence on soil health improvements, nutrient use efficiency, and yield responses. It also likely addresses environmental co-benefits such as carbon sequestration and reduced nutrient leaching.
Topic tags
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