Application of biochar in agriculture for effective water resource conservation

Abstract

Biochar, a carbon-rich by-product of pyrolyzed biomass, has drawn increasing interest due to its ability to enhance soil moisture retention, improve water infiltration rates, and optimize water use efficiency. However, studies on biochar application for water conservation remain limited. This article examines the potential of biochar as a sustainable water conservation measure within agricultural practices under variable climate change conditions. It reveals that biochar may offer promising avenues for sustainable water management and agricultural development through its combined effects on soil structure, nutrient retention, and microbial activity. This paper emphasizes the need for an integrated approach to water and soil management. Integrating biochar with the existing water management practices could substantially reduce irrigation demand and improve agricultural sustainability in semi-arid regions. It also provides useful recommendations for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners to prioritize future research on biochar optimization, and emphasize the development of systematic guidelines for biochar application in agriculture sector. Finally, it highlights the importance of promoting interdisciplinary collaborations to facilitate knowledge exchange and technology transfer for improved water conservation and agricultural sustainability in vulnerable water-scarce regions.