GRDC – Energy Farmers Australia https://www.energyfarmers.com.au Farming Energy & Carbon Fri, 04 Jan 2019 03:53:27 +0000 en-AU hourly 1 Understanding Biochar https://www.energyfarmers.com.au/understanding-biochar/ Sat, 04 May 2013 04:15:24 +0000 http://103.27.34.51/~energyf1/?p=6952 GRDC Biochar Factsheet
Crop on dark soil.
Our vision is to see biochar integrated into Australian farming systems.

The Grains Research and Development Corporation released a fact sheet in January 2013 titled Understanding Biochar.

The key points outlined that:

  • Biochar is a purpose-produced charcoal and its composition varies according to the feedstock used and production conditions such as temperature and time.
  • There is no single type of biochar. Biochar is a stable form of carbon that has potential for carbon sequestration.
  • Research suggests it may be useful in decreasing soil greenhouse gas emissions. Biochar can alter the physical, chemical and biological properties of a soil and may improve crop productivity.
  • Further study is needed on the performance of biochar in a range of soils and environments before it can be accurately predicted where it may have benefits.
  • The economic viability of adding biochar is not yet proven and Australian farmers are currently unable to source large quantities cheaply.

Learn more about biochar.

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