The biochar opportunity
Biochar, a charcoal derived from pyrolysis, a renewable gas production technology, has gained significant attention for its potential in enhancing soil fertility, nutrient retention, and its gradual release. Further, biochar also serves as a potential mean for carbon sequestration and storage, reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the atmosphere.
However, it has not been fully demonstrated how biochar should be applied to soil. Issues such as the application technique, interaction with other components, impact on soil microorganisms, long-term effects, etc. have not yet been assessed consistently. This evaluation is crucial to avoid issues that could worsen the soil quality in the long-term.
The aim of Project FENIX is to find the most effective types of biochar, combine them with digestates (another renewable gas production byproduct) and evaluate the best formulation targeted to different soils.
To prove its efficacy and mid-long-term benefits, tests will be conducted in five distinct areas to assess their effectiveness in enhancing soil fertility, water retention, but also mitigating the growing problem of land desertification due to climate change.
New Life for Biowaste as a sustainable Soil Improver
Ongoing | 2023-2027
- Main funding source
- Horizon Europe (EU Research and Innovation Programme)
- Geographical location
- Spain, Greece, France