Effect of Biochar Application on Soil Microbial Communities in Degraded Lands in Australia

Purpose: To aim of the study was to analyze the effect of biochar application on soil microbial communities in degraded lands in Australia. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: Biochar application in degraded Australian lands has been found to significantly enhance soil microbial communities by increasing diversity and fostering beneficial shifts in composition. Studies indicate that biochar promotes microbial activity through improved soil structure and nutrient availability, supporting essential processes like nutrient cycling and organic matter decomposition. This amendment also helps mitigate soil degradation, providing stable habitat conditions that sustain microbial populations over the long term. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Microbial Community Succession Theory, Carbon Sequestration Theory & Nutrient Cycling Theory may be used to anchor future studies on effect of biochar application on soil microbial communities in degraded lands in Australia. Biochar application provides tangible benefits by improving soil structure, water retention capacity, and nutrient cycling efficiency in degraded lands. Biochar aligns with global sustainability goals by offering a climate-smart solution to land degradation and carbon management. Policies promoting biochar use can incentivize sustainable agricultural practices and contribute to climate change mitigation efforts by sequestering carbon in soils over the long term.