Exploring Biochar Chemistry and Applications for Sustainable Solutions

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The next UPTAKE Science webinar will explore biochar chemistry and applications for sustainable solutions.

Join us for an expert-led webinar that explores the multifaceted potential of biochar - from its chemical makeup to real-world field applications and policy implications. This session brings together leading researchers and practitioners to discuss how biochar contributes to soil health, climate mitigation, and circular economy strategies .

Please note that the event will start at 3 pm Central European Summer Time. (2 pm British Summer Time).

Speakers:

Dr. Helen West, Biosciences, University of Nottingham

Field Application of Biochar for Soil Health and Carbon Sequestration

Dr. West will present case studies and field trials demonstrating how biochar is applied in agricultural systems, its influence on soil fertility, moisture retention, microbial activity, and its role in long-term carbon storage.

Prof. Colin Snape, Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of Nottingham

Decoding Biochar Chemistry: Structure, Stability and Carbon Sequestration Potential

Prof. Snape will delve into the chemical composition of biochar, how feedstock and pyrolysis conditions influence its structure, stability, and how these factors affect its efficacy in carbon storage and soil interactions.

Panelist:

Prof. Ondrej Masek, Geosciences, University of Edinburgh

Linking Science and Practice: Scaling Biochar Deployment for Climate and Circular Economy Goals

Prof. Masek will lead a broader discussion linking lab and field insights to real-world scaling challenges and opportunities for biochar. He will explore the policy, economic, and sustainability dimensions of biochar deployment, including integration with waste management, renewable energy, and carbon markets.

Moderator:
Prof. Pete Smith, Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen

From research to Impact: Shaping a Sustainable Biochar Agenda for Climate Action

Prof. Smith will moderate the session, facilitating dialogue between science and
practice. He will frame the discussion in the broader context of carbon dioxide
removal strategies, land-use policy, and sustainable development, helping to identify
key research gaps, policy needs, and collaborative opportunities.2025-05-14T22:00:00Z

Program:

2.00 pm - 2.15 pm: Speaker 1: Dr Helen West

2.15 pm - 2.30 pm: Speaker 2: Prof. Colin Snape

2.30 pm - 2.45 pm: Panelist: Prof. Ondrej Masek

2.45 pm - 3.00 pm: Q&A Session

3.00 pm: Wrap up and closing

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Webinar Report

Dr. West presented research on deploying biochar at farm scale across temperate agricultural systems. Drawing from field trials and agronomic data, she highlighted biochar’s potential to improve soil health, nutrient use efficiency, and crop productivity. She emphasized that outcomes are context-dependent, with soil type, crop selection, and biochar characteristics playing critical roles in efficacy. Notably, her work demonstrated positive carbon sequestration benefits, supporting biochar as a potential negative emissions technology when implemented at scale.

Prof. Snape addressed the practical, regulatory, and market-based barriers to scaling biochar deployment in the UK. He noted that while the climate benefits of biochar are clear, challenges such as feedstock availability, pyrolysis technology costs, certification, and land-use competition must be resolved. He called for coordinated policy support, long-term field validation, and clearer carbon accounting frameworks to mainstream biochar within climate mitigation strategies.

Prof. Mašek expanded on the scientific and practical aspects of biochar research, integrating findings from both laboratory and field environments. He emphasized the need for robust lifecycle assessments, standardization in biochar production and application, and collaboration between academia, farmers, and policymakers. His insights helped frame biochar not just as a soil amendment, but as a multifunctional tool with climate, agronomic, and economic dimensions.

The session concluded with a dynamic Q&A, where attendees asked about certification schemes, crop-specific responses to biochar, and its role in soil carbon markets. The speakers underlined the importance of tailored strategies, continued research, and stakeholder engagement to ensure biochar delivers on its potential in both agricultural productivity and climate action.

Key Takeaways

Biochar shows strong promise as a carbon-negative solution when deployed appropriately across farming systems.

Scaling challenges exist, particularly around cost, regulation, and consistency in feedstock and production methods.

Strategic policy interventions, combined with rigorous scientific research and field trials, are essential for accelerating adoption.