Low-Cost Biochar: A Sustainable Approach to Improve Soil Fertility and Crop Yield for Small-Scale Farmers

Soil degradation and declining fertility are critical challenges for small-scale farmers, leading to reduced agricultural productivity. Biochar, a carbon-rich material produced from biomass pyrolysis, has shown potential as a sustainable soil amendment to enhance soil properties and crop yield. This study investigates the impact of low-cost rice husk biochar on soil fertility and crop performance in smallholder farming systems of Salna village, Gazipur, Bangladesh. Experimental results indicate that biochar application significantly improved soil characteristics. Soil pH increased from 5.2 (control) to 6.5 (biochar-treated), reducing soil acidity and improving nutrient availability. Organic matter content doubled, rising from 1.2% (control) to 2.4% (biochar-treated), enhancing microbial activity and soil fertility. Moisture retention improved by 37.6%, reducing water stress in crops. Crop performance also showed substantial improvement. Biochar-treated plots exhibited a 33% increase in grain yield compared to control fields. Plant height increased by 14.7%, and the number of tillers per plant rose by 33.3%, indicating better overall plant growth. Additionally, farmers observed improved soil texture and reduced dependency on synthetic fertilizers, highlighting biochar’s long-term benefits. The findings suggest that low-cost biochar is an effective and sustainable solution for enhancing soil health and boosting agricultural productivity in resource-limited farming systems. Future studies should explore its long-term impact, economic feasibility, and scalability. Promoting biochar through policy support and farmer training programs could facilitate widespread adoption, ensuring sustainable and climate-resilient agriculture.