Turning plant waste into biochar captures loads of carbon. New research suggests it stays trapped for much longer than scientists thought.
The article from MSN discusses an ancient method of carbon sequestration known as biochar, which has been used for thousands of years. Biochar is created through the process of pyrolysis, where organic material like wood or agricultural waste is heated in the absence of oxygen, resulting in a stable form of carbon that can remain in the soil for millennia. This technique, originally practiced by indigenous peoples in the Amazon to enrich poor soils, not only helps in carbon storage but also improves soil fertility, water retention, and supports microbial life. Modern interest in biochar has surged due to its potential in mitigating climate change by locking away carbon that would otherwise contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. The article highlights how this ancient ingenuity could play a significant role in contemporary efforts to combat global warming.
Science & Technology
Mon, March 3, 2025
