Source: “The Chemical Delusion: When Numbers Replace Understanding,” Apr 4, 2026, Dr. Suzie Haryanti Husain

It often starts the same way.

A soil test comes back. The numbers sit where they should. pH is balanced. Nutrients are within range. Nothing signals concern. On paper, the system looks stable.

So decisions move forward with confidence.

Then…

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Hello everyone,

Did you know that IBI is currently developing an International Biochar Atlas pilot? The aim is to create a practical, easy to use digital resource that helps agricultural stakeholders make more informed decisions about biochar-based on real biochar properties, soil conditions, and local needs.

The pilot, is already underway and…

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the liquid soap we make is an anionic surfactant wetting agent that contains 25% glycerin naturally. coating wood biomass char with soap should make it more wettable. We are not sure if the soap will improve the chars moisture retention abilities. Pyroligneous acid (wood vinegar) is more akin to basic vinegar with some organic stuff added. …

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Let’s ask other members if they have ever used soap and biochar?? Will wood vinegar and biochar serve the same purpose (soil drench)?

We have been working with biomass chars, like wood, nut shells, bone, spent mushroom substrate, straw, are a long while. It is exciting to blend these chars with other inputs and/or modify them before use in order to work towards soil resilience and plant health. Would be curious to learn if other folks on this forum have used wood biomass…

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Because each fixes real limits of the other.

What the evidence shows?

Scientific literature is consistent. When biochar is added during composting, both processing and agronomic outcomes improve.

An October 2025 peer-reviewed paper shows that, at roughly a 10 percent inclusion rate, co-composting with biochar:

• Reduces nitrogen losses and…

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Hi Rafa, this is amazing! I’m really excited to read more updates. It’s great to hear how they’ve built this important space in the middle of the city and that they’re open to integrating biochar into the soil!

Rafa, this is so fascinating – especially the fact that they’re growing on top of earthquake rubble. I’m excited to follow your conversations as you volunteer there and introduce them to biochar.

In the U.S., I’ve heard it is such a time-consuming process to get certified as organic that many farmers choose to just not. Interesting to hear how…

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A Fellow’s Field Note from Huerto Tlatelolco

On December 4th, I visited Huerto Tlatelolco, an urban garden located just north of Mexico City’s historic center. This site sits within the Tlatelolco housing complex, a landmark of modern urban design in Mexico that was heavily impacted by the 1985 earthquake.

In 2012, the collective Cultiva… Read more

This is such a great photo!

Hi everyone!
As we kick off conversations in this forum, I keep coming back to how central healthy soils are to so much of what we care about: resilient farming systems, food security, and thriving communities. No matter how advanced our technologies become, everything still starts in the field, with the soil beneath our feet.

In a previous role,…

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These three inputs are often grouped together, but they play different roles. Understanding the difference helps you design better soil strategies, reduce waste, and avoid costly mistakes.

Biochar

Produced through pyrolysis, biochar is stable carbon with a porous structure. It does not act as fertilizer. It does not decompose like compost. Its…

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