Journal article

Publication year: 2016

Pages: 183-190

Journal: Carbon Management

Volume number: 7

Issue number: 3-4

ISSN: 1758-3004

Open access status: Green

DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.1080/17583004.2016.1213608

Publisher: Taylor and Francis Group

Abstract: 
Biochar may become a key instrument at the nexus of managed carbon flows, including value added potential in soil amelioration, climate protection, energy supply and organic waste management. This article reflects the potential use of biochar in agriculture from the perspective of the farming economy. Biochar soil amendment in crop production is regarded as a win-win situation, both for assumed increases in cropping yields and carbon sequestration in soil organic matter. However, an extensive review on biochar effect on crop yield has not yet been able to provide compelling arguments to foster more widespread biochar use in cropping systems. Furthermore, the half-lives of biochars are frequently shorter than commonly suggested, and other financial incentives, such as including biochar in carbon credit systems, are not in place to compensate for the extra cost of applying biochar. As a result, we conclude with a somewhat skeptical view for a widespread use of biochar in agriculture in the near future.

Harvard Citation style: Bach, M., Wilske, B. and Breuer, L. (2016) Current economic obstacles to biochar use in agriculture and climate change mitigation, Carbon Management, 7(3-4), pp. 183-190. https://doi.org/10.1080/17583004.2016.1213608

APA Citation style: Bach, M., Wilske, B., & Breuer, L. (2016). Current economic obstacles to biochar use in agriculture and climate change mitigation. Carbon Management. 7(3-4), 183-190. https://doi.org/10.1080/17583004.2016.1213608