Biochar's role in reducing N2O emissions from croplands: A meta-analytical perspective
Uncovering the science behind sustainable agriculture
image: Biochar reduces N2O emission from fertilized cropland soils: a meta-analysis
Credit: Lei Zhong, Ping Wang, Zhibin Gu, Yufeng Song, Xiaoxian Cai, Guanqi Yu, Xingliang Xu* and Yakov Kuzyakov
Nitrous oxide (N2O) is a potent greenhouse gas emitted from agricultural soils, contributing significantly to climate change. Reducing these emissions is crucial for sustainable agriculture. Prof. Xingliang Xu and his team are at the forefront of this research, conducting a meta-analysis to synthesize findings from numerous studies on the effectiveness of biochar in reducing N2O emissions. Their work offers valuable insights into the mechanisms and practical applications of biochar in agricultural practices.
Imagine a study that not only quantifies the reduction of N2O emissions but also explores the underlying biological processes. This is the vision driving Prof. Xingliang Xu's research. By examining the effects of biochar application rates on N2O emissions, his team has uncovered how biochar influences nitrification and denitrification processes in soils. Their work reveals the potential of biochar to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while enhancing soil health.
This pioneering meta-analysis conducted at the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences reveals several key insights:
- Emission Reduction: The study demonstrates that biochar application significantly reduces N2O emissions from fertilized cropland soils.
- Biological Mechanisms: Detailed analysis shows that biochar affects nitrification and denitrification processes, altering the activity of functional genes involved in N2O production.
- Practical Applications: The research highlights the potential of biochar as a sustainable agricultural practice, offering a practical solution for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Looking ahead, Prof. Xingliang Xu plans to further explore the long-term effects of biochar application on soil health and greenhouse gas emissions. His work promises to provide valuable insights for farmers and policymakers seeking to adopt sustainable agricultural practices.
This research is more than just a scientific study; it is a vital step towards enhancing sustainable agricultural practices. By providing a comprehensive meta-analysis of biochar's impact on N2O emissions, Prof. Xingliang Xu is contributing to global efforts to mitigate climate change and promote sustainable agriculture. His work underscores the importance of biochar in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving soil health.
Stay tuned for more updates on this pioneering research from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences. Prof. Xingliang Xu and his team are leading the way in exploring innovative solutions for sustainable agriculture. Their work is a testament to the power of scientific inquiry and the potential of biochar to drive progress in environmental management. Together, we can enhance agricultural practices and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
===
- Citation: Zhong, L., Wang, P., Gu, Z. et al. Biochar reduces N2O emission from fertilized cropland soils: a meta-analysis. Carbon Res. 4, 31 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s44246-025-00198-5
- Title: Biochar reduces N2O emission from fertilized cropland soils: a meta-analysis
- Keywords: Application rates; N2O emissions; Nitrification; Denitrification; Functional genes
===
Media Contact:
Wushuang Li
liwushuang@syau.edu.cn
About Carbon Research
The journal Carbon Research is an international multidisciplinary platform for communicating advances in fundamental and applied research on natural and engineered carbonaceous materials that are associated with ecological and environmental functions, energy generation, and global change. It is a fully Open Access (OA) journal and the Article Publishing Charges (APC) are waived until Dec 31, 2025. It is dedicated to serving as an innovative, efficient and professional platform for researchers in the field of carbon functions around the world to deliver findings from this rapidly expanding field of science. The journal is currently indexed by Scopus and Ei Compendex, and as of June 2025, the dynamic CiteScore value is 15.4.