Panaji: Material often treated as agricultural waste could soon become a valuable resource for farmers. ICAR-CCARI, Goa, has launched a pilot initiative at Keri and Priol in Ponda to explore the use of biochar in kulagar farms.Biochar is a carbon-rich material produced by heating biomass under limited oxygen. Unlike ordinary organic matter, which decomposes relatively quickly, biochar can keep much of its carbon stable in the soil for longer, potentially improving soil conditions while storing carbon.The project is examining how biomass generated on these farms can be converted into biochar and applied back to fields as a soil amendment. At a recent training programme, ‘Carbon Pathshala’, ICAR-CCARI director Parveen Kumar highlighted the potential of carbon-credit initiatives to provide farmers with additional income while supporting environmental sustainability. A R Uthappa, senior scientist (agroforestry), said biochar can improve soil health while creating opportunities for carbon credits.Goa’s farms routinely generate large quantities of biomass that are often left unused or discarded. The pilot proposes converting this material into biochar through controlled processing and returning it to the soil. .The initiative also addresses local agronomic needs. Much of Goa’s farmland has lateritic soils with limited water and nutrient retention. Researchers believe biochar’s porous structure can help retain moisture and nutrients. Senior scientist Bommayasamy N said the expected benefits include better moisture conservation, improved nutrient retention, enrichment of soil biodiversity, and long-term carbon storage, while enabling farmers to recycle biomass generated on their own fields.
