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Potential uses of biochar and Terra Preta in Bavarian agriculture - contribution to climate protection and climate change adaptation (TerraBayt)
Project
Project code: TerraBayt
Contract period: 01.01.2022
- 31.12.2024
Purpose of research: Experimental development
Keywords: biochar, field experiments, model calculations
To achieve climate protection goals, it is necessary to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. In addition to afforestation and increasing soil carbon content, the pyrolysis of biomass and the use of biochar are promising approaches to carbon storage. Climate protection through formation of humus and carbon storage in soils offer new perspectives and can improve the image of agriculture.
Studies on biochar have so far mainly been carried out in laboratory experiments under controlled conditions; long-term field trials are lacking. Therefore, the long-term agro-ecological effects (effects on soil properties and processes, carbon sequestration in soils, nitrogen emissions and nitrate leaching) and crop production effects (yield, yield stability, product quality) cannot yet be assessed with certainty. Essential questions about the use of biochar are still unanswered.
In the TerraBayt research project, the potential of biochar for carbon sequestration and greenhouse gas reduction, for soil improvement and yield increase, and as an adaptation strategy to climate change is being determined. The investigations are based on long-term field experiments at the Roggenstein and Thalhausen experimental stations of the Technical University of Munich (TUM), fertilisation trials on grassland (Baierlach) and arable land (Burghausen), and a fertilisation trial at the Hiltpoltstein orchard experimental station, thus representing different farming systems and soil-climate regions of Bavaria.
Model calculations and material flow balances are used to determine the biomass, biochar and nutrient requirements as well as the costs of biochar application. The research results are used to develop solutions and application recommendations for the efficient use of biochar in Bavarian agriculture as well as recommendations for politics and administration. The active participation of agricultural institutions, the Kuratorium Bayerischer Maschinen- und Betriebshilfsringe e.V. and C.A.R.M.E.N. e.V. ensure the practical relevance of the research work and the rapid transfer of knowledge.
Section overview
Subjects
- Crop Production
- Plant Nutrition
- Resource management
- Climate Change
