Summary
This comprehensive review examines soil acidification in agricultural systems and the emerging role of biochar as a liming amendment. The authors synthesise evidence that biochar, derived from organic residues, can effectively reduce soil acidity through carbonate and oxide dissolution and microbial processes, thereby improving soil fertility and productivity in acid soils. The findings suggest biochar represents a multifunctional carbon input alternative to conventional liming materials, with effectiveness dependent on feedstock and processing conditions.
UK applicability
Soil acidification is a significant problem in UK agriculture, particularly in intensive arable and grassland systems, making biochar's liming potential directly relevant to UK farm management. However, the review's global scope means UK-specific evidence on biochar performance under temperate maritime conditions may require supplementary field validation to support policy adoption.
Key measures
Soil pH, soil acidity, liming potential of biochar, alkalinity dependent on feedstock and processing conditions, dissolution of carbonates and (hydro)-oxides in biochar ash fraction
Outcomes reported
This review synthesises evidence on how soil acidification occurs in managed agricultural ecosystems and evaluates biochar's potential to neutralise soil acidity through its liming effect. The paper examines the mechanisms by which biochar reduces soil acidity and enhances soil fertility in acidic soils.
Topic tags
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