Clarifying the conflation of biochar carbon stability and its soil co-benefits

Robert W. Brown , David R. Chadwick , Davey L. Jones

Biochar ›› 2026, Vol. 8 ›› Issue (1) : 67

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Biochar ›› 2026, Vol. 8 ›› Issue (1) :67 DOI: 10.1007/s42773-026-00581-4
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Clarifying the conflation of biochar carbon stability and its soil co-benefits
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Abstract

Not all biochar is equal. We clarify the frequent conflation between biochar carbon stability and soil co-benefits across research, policy, and markets. While stability ensures long-term carbon storage, co-benefits rely on more surface functionality from less stable biochar. Decoupling these dimensions enables designing biochar optimized for distinct functions.

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Environmental interaction / Durability / Carbon Markets / Agriculture

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Robert W. Brown, David R. Chadwick, Davey L. Jones. Clarifying the conflation of biochar carbon stability and its soil co-benefits. Biochar, 2026, 8(1): 67 DOI:10.1007/s42773-026-00581-4

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Funding

Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council(BB/V011596/1)

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