Use of Biochar in German Farms - Benefits for Climate, Soil and Animal Health
Biochar is a porous, carbon-rich material that is produced when plant biomass is heated at very high temperatures in the absence of air (pyrolysis).
During this process, a large proportion of the carbon that was originally bound in the plants is not released into the atmosphere as CO₂ but remains stably bound in the biochar for many years. In this way, it can actively contribute to climate protection and optimize the carbon footprint of agricultural farms.
Soil fertility plays a decisive role in yield stability. Biochar can make a positive contribution to this by promoting water retention and optimizing soil aeration. In addition, biochar can bind nutrients and so contribute to higher nutrient availability. This can reduce the leaching of nutrients and lower the need for synthetic fertilizers. One practical way of applying biochar is to use it as a manure additive.
One advantage of using biochar in cattle farming is the optimization of animal health. Biochar can be used as a feed additive to support the animals' digestive tract. It binds toxins, harmful substances and gases in the gastrointestinal tract. This can prevent illness and promote the general health of the animals. Biochar can also be used as bedding, e.g. in dairy farming. Due to the ability of biochar to absorb moisture and dirt, the lying surfaces remain drier. This can inhibit the growth of bacteria and other pathogens and thus reduce the risk of infections or skin problems. In addition, dry and clean bedding helps to prevent claw diseases.
Overall, special attention should be paid to the origin, production and quality of biochar so that the benefits described can unfold.
Climate Farm Demo
Ongoing | 2022-2029
- Main funding source
- Horizon Europe (EU Research and Innovation Programme)
- Geographical location
- Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, United Kingdom, Switzerland, Serbia