Effect of biochar type and dose in cultivation tests at lab and pilot scale

The conversion of biodegradable waste into biofertilizers supports sustainable agriculture and circular economy, recovers vital nutrients, and decreases greenhouse gas emissions associated to agricultural operations. Biochar applied as a biofertilizer improves soil aeration, water retention, and nutrient availability while sequestering carbon and reducing the use of chemical fertilizers. This study explored the impact of biochar types and doses on the growth of lettuce (Lactuca Sativa) plants. The tests were performed in parallel for 5 weeks in a lab-scale greenhouse and in a pilot-scale greenhouse. A low-cost automated proximate sensor system was installed in the lab-scale greenhouse for the remote monitoring of plants growth and microclimate.