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Biochar could clear the air in more ways than one
http://news.rice.edu/2017/07/26/biochar-could-clear-the-air-in-more-ways-than-one/Biochar could clear the air in more ways than one
Mike Williams
– July 26, 2017
Rice study suggests health, economic benefits of capturing agricultural nitric oxide
Biochar from recycled waste may both enhance crop growth and save health costs by helping clear the air of pollutants, according to Rice University researchers.
Rice researchers in Earth science, economics and environmental engineering have determined that widespread use of biochar in agriculture could reduce health care costs, especially for those who live in urban areas close to farmland.
Biochar is ground charcoal produced from waste wood, manure or leaves. Added to soil, the porous carbon has been shown to boost crop yields, lessen the need for fertilizer and reduce pollutants by storing nitrogen that would otherwise be released to the atmosphere.
Using biochar to cut emissions of nitric oxide (NO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) would lower ozone and particulate matter levels in urban areas near farmland and save lives and money, according to Rice University researchers. Illustration by Ghasideh Pourhashem
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http://dx.doi.org/10.1021/acs.est.7b00748