A critical review of sustainable application of biochar for green remediation: Research uncertainty and future directions

Biochar, a carbon-rich material produced from the pyrolysis of organic biomass, has gained significant attention
as a potential solution for sustainable green remediation practices. Several studies analyze biomass-derived
biochar techniques and environmental applications, but comprehensive assessments of biochar limitations, un
certainty, and future research directions still need to be improved. This critical review aims to present a
comprehensive analysis of biochar’s efficacy in environmental applications, including soil, water, and air, by
sequentially addressing its preparation, application, and associated challenges. The review begins by delving into
the diverse methods of biochar production, highlighting their influence on physical and chemical properties. This
review explores the diverse applications of biochar in remediating contaminated soil, water, and air while
emphasizing its sustainability and eco-friendly characteristics. The focus is on incorporating biochar as a
remediation technique for pollutant removal, sequestration, and soil improvement. The review highlights the
promising results obtained from laboratory-scale experiments, field trials, and case studies, showcasing the
effectiveness of biochar in mitigating contaminants and restoring ecosystems. The environmental benefits and
challenges of biochar production, characterization, and application techniques are critically discussed. The po
tential synergistic effects of combining biochar with other remediation methods are also explored to enhance its
efficacy. A rigorous analysis of the benefits and drawbacks of biochar for diverse environmental applications in
terms of technical, environmental, economic, and social issues is required to support the commercialization of
biochar for large-scale uses. Finally, future research directions and recommendations are presented to facilitate
the development and implementation of biochar-based, sustainable green remediation strategies.