The escalating concerns about sustainable agriculture due to climate change have led to the widespread adoption of biochar for soil enhancement. Biochar not only boosts soil fertility by enriching it with essential nutrients but also aids in trapping carbon dioxide, thus playing a pivotal role in achieving a carbon-neutral status in agriculture while averting soil degradation. A team of researchers at ICRISAT has devised an economical biochar production kiln tailored for small-scale farmers, promising to bolster sustainability at the field level. Their study also delves into analyzing the characteristics of the produced biochar to gain deeper insights into its efficacy. Dr. Jacqueline Hughes, the Director General of ICRISAT, underlines the multifaceted benefits of biochar production, emphasizing its role not just in managing crop residues but also in paving the way for environmentally friendly practices such as enhancing soil health, wastewater treatment, and carbon sequestration.
According to the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy in India, the country annually generates more than 500 million tons of agricultural residues, a significant portion of which is incinerated, posing severe threats to both health and the environment. Transforming these residues into biochar emerges as a practical solution, offering additional income avenues or cost reductions for farmers.
Dr. M.L. Jat, the Director of the Global Research Program on Resilient Farming Systems and Food Systems at ICRISAT, advocates for a decentralized approach, highlighting the affordability and viability of this low-cost biochar production technology in addressing crop residue management challenges faced by farmers and self-help groups (SHGs). This approach also aligns with various governmental initiatives such as voluntary carbon markets and programs like the 'Mission for Sustainable Lifestyles.' The study conducted a comparative analysis of pyrolysis kilns developed by ICRISAT, utilizing two different feedstocks - pigeon pea and maize cob. The findings reveal that biochar produced in the portable kiln at 400 degrees Celsius exhibits similar quality to that produced in laboratory-scale muffle kilns.
ICRISAT scientists have developed an affordable biochar production kiln tailored for small-scale farmers in agriculture. This innovation transforms crop residues into biochar, enhancing soil fertility and carbon sequestration. Research indicates that biochar produced in the portable kiln at 400 degrees Celsius matches the quality of that from laboratory-scale muffle kilns. ICRISAT is actively working on refining this technology and aiding farmers in its adoption.
India annually generates over 500 million tons of agricultural residue, a quarter of which is typically burnt. Conversion of these residues into biochar not only reduces waste but also improves soil health. The kiln devised by ICRISAT allows farmers to produce biochar economically. The study underscores the necessity for further exploration into biochar's impact on soil.
This research holds considerable promise in facilitating the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices among small-scale farmers. Moreover, it contributes to combating climate change.
Benefits: ICRISAT aims to customize biochar production for different crop residues and cropping systems. Additionally, it will develop training and capacity-building programs to help farmers adopt this technology. This study contributes significantly to agricultural waste management and sustainable agriculture. This initiative by ICRISAT will benefit both farmers and the environment.
For further information, visit the ICRISAT website: https://www.icrisat.org
.jpg "Government new initiative to promote regenerative farming in India")
