Opportunities and constraints for biochar technology in Australian agriculture: looking beyond carbon sequestration

There is limited support for claimed benefits of biochar application to soil based on soil fertility and crop productivity observations made in the Amazonian Black Earth (Terra Preta). The uncertainty of production gains, lack of knowledge about other benefits and other factors have resulted in poor uptake of biochar technology in Australia and elsewhere. This review presents important challenges and opportunities in the adoption of biochar technology for broadacre farming and other sectors in Australia. Emerging and novel applications of biochar have been highlighted so that full benefits of biochar can be achieved. We have also identified some priority research areas that needs immediate attention in order to realise the full potential of biochar technology in agriculture and other sectors in Australia.