Research and Application of Biochar in New Zealand
- Marta Camps Arbestain ,
- James R. Jones,
- Leo M. Condron and
- Timothy J. Clough
– Author Affiliations
New Zealand Biochar Research Centre, Institute of Agriculture and Environment, Private Bag 11222, Massey University, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand New Zealand Biochar Research Centre, School of Engineering and Advanced Technology, Riddet Rd., Massey University, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand (J.R.Jones@massey.ac.nz) (Leo.Condron@lincoln.ac.nz), Dep. of Soil and Physical Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Farm Rd., Lincoln Univ., Lincoln 7647, New Zealand Bio-Protection Research Centre, P.O. Box 84, Lincoln Univ., Lincoln 7647, Christchurch, New Zealand (Timothy.Clough@lincoln.ac.nz), Dep. of Soil and Physical Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Farm Rd., Lincoln Univ., Lincoln 7647, New Zealand
Abstract
This chapter describes the research performed in New Zealand on (i) pyrolysis engineering (feedstocks, scale of pyrolysis, reaction design), (ii) biochar characterization (carbon sequestration value, fertilizer value), (iii) biochar carbon stability, (iv) biochar influence on N dynamics in soil–plant systems, (v) other uses of biochar in New Zealand (e.g., soilless agriculture and remediation of sheep dip sites), and (vi) environmental impact and barriers to adoption. We propose some priority research areas, which will mainly involve specific case studies where biochar may confer some advantages (e.g., vineyards and orchards) and some general science questions that should help attain a better understanding of the impact of biochar on specific soil processes.