What is Biochar?
Biochar is a carbon-rich, charcoal-like material created through pyrolysis—heating organic biomass such as crop residues, wood chips, and forest waste in a controlled, low-oxygen environment. Unlike ordinary charcoal, biochar is specifically designed to sequester carbon, enhance soil health, and reduce environmental pollution.
At MARDI, we transform agricultural waste into this powerful soil amendment, combining traditional knowledge with modern pyrolysis technology to build healthier soils and combat climate change.
Rooted in Ancient Wisdom: The Terra Preta Legacy
Over 2,000 years ago, indigenous Amazonian communities discovered the power of charred organic matter, creating legendary “terra preta” or “dark earth” soils. These ancient soils remain extraordinarily fertile today—a testament to biochar’s ability to improve soil health across centuries.
At MARDI, we honor this ancestral knowledge while applying modern science to regenerate our farmlands and combat climate change.
How We Produce Biochar at MARDI
Quality Feedstock Selection
We use woody biomass, crop residues, dry leaves, and organic farm waste with optimal moisture content (10-20%) and high lignin. All materials are carefully sourced to avoid contamination.
Controlled Pyrolysis
Through thermal decomposition in low-oxygen conditions, we convert biomass into stable carbon. We use efficient TLUD (top-lit updraft) methods for minimal emissions and maximum quality.
Carbon-Negative Output
The result: 70% carbon biochar that locks CO₂ in soil for centuries while generating renewable heat energy—making our process truly carbon-negative.
The Multi-Dimensional Benefits of Biochar
Transform Degraded Soils Naturally
◈ Improves soil structure and aeration for better root development
◈ Increases water retention capacity—critical during dry seasons
◈ Reduces soil acidity by raising pH levels naturally
◈ Enhances nutrient retention and reduces nitrogen leaching by up to 50%
◈ Decreases nitrous oxide (N₂O) emissions—a potent greenhouse gas
Supercharge Your Compost
◈ Accelerates decomposition by providing habitat for microorganisms
◈ Reduces ammonia loss and eliminates unpleasant odors
◈ Minimizes methane and CO₂ emissions during composting
◈ Improves nutrient density of final compost product
◈ Creates premium organic manure for your farm
Carbon-Negative Technology
◈ Removes more CO₂ from atmosphere than it emits
◈ Sequesters carbon in soil for 500+ years
◈ Reduces dependence on chemical fertilizers
◈ Contributes to India’s climate commitments
◈ Offers carbon credit potential for farmers
How We Apply Biochar at MARDI
Biochar Application Best Practices
The effectiveness of biochar depends on proper application. At MARDI, we follow these science-backed practices
Charging Before Application
This charging process loads biochar’s porous structure with nutrients and beneficial microbes before field application.
We never apply raw biochar directly to soil. Instead, we “charge” it by mixing with:
- Aged compost or vermicompost
- Organic manure (FYM or cow dung)
- Bio-fertilizers and microbial inoculants
Application Rates
- Sandy/degraded soils: 10-20 tons per hectare
- Moderate soils: 5-10 tons per hectare
- Healthy soils: 2-5 tons per hectare (maintenance)
Integration Methods
- Mixed into compost piles (10-20% by volume)
- Incorporated during field preparation
- Applied in planting pits for trees and perennials
- Top-dressed around existing crops with mulch
Our Contribution to Climate Resilience
Biochar: A Complete Environmental Solution
At MARDI, biochar technology allows us to address multiple global challenges simultaneously:
🌍 Climate Change Mitigation
– Carbon sequestration for centuries, reducing atmospheric CO₂
♻️ Waste Management
– Converting agricultural residues into valuable resources
⚡ Renewable Energy
– Capturing heat energy during production for farm operations
🌾 Food Security
– Improving soil fertility and crop yields naturally
💧 Water Conservation
– Enhanced soil moisture retention in water-stressed regions
Bridging Tradition and Innovation
Biochar represents our commitment to regenerative agriculture—a holistic approach that:
– Integrates waste management with soil restoration
– Combines clean energy generation with carbon sequestration
– Enhances farm productivity while building climate resilience
– Honors indigenous wisdom through modern scientific application
For farmers, rural communities, and sustainability advocates, biochar offers a practical pathway to improve soil health, reduce input costs, and contribute meaningfully to climate change mitigation.
At MARDI, we’re not just farming—we’re regenerating the earth for future generations.