Biochar and Sewage Sludge Influence on Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Crop

Biochar addition to soil has the ability to enhance retention of nutrients and C sequestration while they may otherwise be depleted in similar system without the addition of biochar. Biochar has the ability to change the biodiversity of an agro-ecosystem without negatively impacting crop yield. It has potential to improve soil physical, chemical and biological properties and enhance crop yield significantly. A key advantage of bio-char with respect to soil ecosystem functions is that it is more efficient in improving soil fertility and nutrient retention than un-charred organic matter . More research is needed to understand the impact of original biomass material (feedstock) and pyrolysis conditions (i.e. high or low temperature production) upon soil physical, chemical and biological properties. Biochar is new Green for Us. Intensive farming generally needs large addition of organic matter to maintain fertility and enhance crop yields. Sewage sludge is a products of municipal and industrial wastewater treatment and a rich source of organic nutrients. It is good source of plant nutrients such as N, P, K, S, Ca, Mg, Fe, Cu, Mn and Zn as well as other organic constituents.