Standardization, certification, and development of biochar based fertilizer for sustainable agriculture: An overview
Nakum Divyangkumar, N. L. Panwar
Abstract
The growing global population and decreasing arable land present challenges to agriculture. Traditional fertilizers enhance productivity but also bring about environmental and economic concerns. Slow-release fertilizers (SRFs) are an attempt to support sustainable agriculture by reducing costs and environmental impact. Biochar, a popular soil enhancer, is gaining attention for use in biochar-based SRFs. This review examines the potential of biochar in creating a carbon-neutral environment and provides an overview of SRF classifications, biochar application standards, and global SRF standards. The review also suggests several techniques to improve the effectiveness of biochar as a fertilizer, including encapsulation, in-situ pyrolysis, impregnation, co-pyrolysis, and granulation. The focus of the review is on biochar-based SRFs and nanofertilizers as promising solutions. Overall, utilizing biochar-based SRFs is seen as an effective and environmentally friendly approach to advancing sustainable agriculture, offering environmentally conscious technology for improved crop growth and quality. • Discussed biochar standards/ SRFs standards for application in soil. • Biochar in SRF/nano fertilizers reduces nutrient leaching, aiding sustainability. • SRFs replace costly options, cut GHG emissions, and mitigate climate change. • Biochar-based smart fertilizers identify crop diseases and work accordingly. • Management of agriculture waste and fertilizer pollution.