In the quest for a sustainable future, biochar emerges as a pivotal element due to its capacity to improve soil health, sequester carbon, and support a circular economy. This glossary provides an overview of essential terms and concepts related to biochar, helping you learn about this valuable resource.
A Glossary of Terms about Biochar
Biochar
Biochar from biochar machine is a stable, carbon-rich material produced from the pyrolysis of organic biomass under low oxygen conditions. One of its primary uses is as a soil amendment to improve soil health and sequester carbon.
Biomass
Biomass is renewable organic materials that come from plants and animals. It’s a renewable energy source that can be used to produce heat, electricity, or fuels. Biomass can include agricultural or forest residues, animal manure, etc.
Biochar Certification
Biochar certification programs ensure that biochar products meet specific standards for quality, safety, and environmental performance. There are several prominent biochar certification programs worldwide:
- International Biochar Initiative (IBI): Offers a comprehensive certification program that covers various aspects of biochar production, handling, and use.
- European Biochar Certificate (EBC): Focuses on the European market and provides standards for biochar production and quality.
Carbon Sequestration
Carbon sequestration refers to the process of capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2). Biochar is recognized for its ability to lock carbon into the soil for centuries, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change.
Carbon Credit
A carbon credit represents one metric ton of carbon dioxide (CO₂) or an equivalent amount of other greenhouse gases that have been prevented from entering the atmosphere. These credits are issued to projects that reduce emissions, such as renewable energy projects or reforestation. Biochar projects can generate carbon credits by sequestering carbon in the soil, providing a financial incentive for carbon mitigation efforts.
Soil Amendment
A soil amendment is any material added to soil to improve its physical or chemical properties, such as texture, fertility, or water retention. Biochar is a highly effective soil amendment due to its porous structure and nutrient-holding capacity.
Regenerative Agriculture
Regenerative agriculture is an approach to farming that aims to improve soil health, enhance biodiversity, and increase resilience to climate change. Unlike conventional agriculture, which often focuses on maximizing yields with synthetic inputs and monocultures, regenerative agriculture emphasizes practices that restore and regenerate the land. Soil health, carbon sequestration, biodiversity, water management, ecosystem balance, and local and circular economies are key focuses of regenerative agriculture.
Circular Economy
The circular economy is a sustainable model that focuses on minimizing waste and making the most of available resources. Unlike the traditional linear economy, which follows a “take, make, dispose” pattern, the circular economy emphasizes closing the loop by keeping products, materials, and resources in use for as long as possible.