Composters & Manufactured soils companies
Biochar is being used in the cannabis and nursery industry and for other high value agriculture to mitigate crop failure from heat, drought or other ‘shock’ events. Biochar increases soil carbon, restoring overworked and nonproductive soil.
Biochar is an effective ‘bulking agent,’ loosening compacted soil and creating a healthy soil biome that will support beneficial bacteria that turn organic matter into plant nutrients.
Biochar can reduce nitrous oxide emissions in a variety of soil types, particularly those under organic protocols. Nitrous oxide is a powerful greenhouse gas and is generated from various agricultural management practices, such as application of synthetic and organic fertilizers, the management of manure, and other agricultural residues. Agricultural soil management is the largest source of N2O emissions in the United States, accounting for about 74% of total U.S. N2O emissions in 2020.
Biochar reduces the mobilization of nutrients and agricultural amendments that would otherwise wash through soil and create pollution in aquifers, wells and other waterways. Importantly, it reduces the need for organic amendments, retaining them in the soil longer for improved soil and plant health.
When biochar is used with compost to catalyze the generation of beneficial bacteria, it can retain organic nutrients and help to decrease the need for commercial fertilizers, bulking agents, and other soil amendments. Biochar remains stable and effective in the soil for decades, so no need for repeated applications.
