Revolutionizing sustainability of agroecosystems using nano-biochar solutions: Agricultural and environmental perspectives

Abstract Background : Achieving sustainability of agroecosystems in the face of increasing environmental challenges and diminishing natural resources demands innovative and multifunctional materials. Carbon capture from biomass residue is a promising approach and represents a climate-resilient solution that utilizes the synthesis of advanced substances, such as nano-biochar (NBC). Objective : This review assesses the potential of NBC as a sustainable advanced tool for boosting crop productivity and fortifying ecological resilience. Methods : A comprehensive review of recent scientific literature was conducted to investigate NBC properties, production methods, analytical techniques, and field application methods; systematic analyses and syntheses were performed. The analyzed studies focused on soil fertility management, pollutant remediation, nutrient dynamics, and reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Results : NBC has distinct biochemical characteristics including a high specific surface area, a porous structure, and a multitude of surface functional groups. These characteristics contribute to multifunctional effectiveness in terms of agroecosystem sustainability. NBC enhances soil fertility, stimulates plant development, improves nutrient retention, sequesters heavy metals, reduces GHG emissions, and positively affects the rhizosphere. Recent advances in production methodologies have improved the efficiency of NBC. This has resulted in an increase in the number of NBC applications in the agricultural sector. Despite these advances, operational challenges remain unresolved. These challenges include the feasibility of large-scale production, standardization of NBC properties, and long-term environmental impacts. Conclusions : NBC offers substantial prospects for sustainable agroecosystems. This solution transforms biomass residues into valuable harvested carbon materials. These substances protect the environment and enhance food safety. Future research should focus on optimizing scalable production methods. In addition, the long-term application and incorporation of NBC into climate-resilient farming practices are needed to completely understand its agroecological benefits.