100 tons of biochar for Oromia
24.04.2024
In the ETH-Soil project, it is one of our goals to produce biochar and biochar-based fertilizer on a large scale at minimal cost and distribute it to small-scale farmers lacking food self-sufficiency. Our partners in Ethiopia - Jimma University, Assela Agricultural Mechanization Research Center and Batu Soil Research Center of the oari oromia agricultural research institute (IQQO) - are currently producing biochar from different agricultural residues using Kon-Tiki kilns. The target is to generate over 100 tons of biochar for use in the upcoming cropping season.
A portion of the produced biochar will be co-composted with nutrient-rich organic materials at production sites to enhance its nutrient content. The resulting biochar-based fertilizer will then be provided to small-scale farmers for application on their soils. The other portion of biochar will be directly distributed to farmers with the capability to co-compost it themselves before application on their land.
Unlike mineral fertilizers, biochar-based fertilizers release their nutrients gradually, which increases the plant uptake of nutrients and reduces nutrient depletion by rain or irrigation. Moreover, biochar remains in the soil increasing the organic soil carbon content, improving aeration and water retention, thus benefiting soil quality in the long term.
Based on the Kon-Tiki training we received from Ithaka Institute we created a step-by-step guide on how to produce your own biochar. You can watch in now on YouTube:
