**5. Improvement in carbon (C) sequestration**

The rise in ambient temperature due to anthropogenic activities has led to a 0.88°C increase in global surface temperature since the nineteenth century [185, 186]. Biochar application offers an eco-friendly solution for soil organic carbon (SOC) sequestration [11, 187–189]. It enhances SOC recalcitrance under warming conditions, promoting carbon sequestration [190]. Biochar also inhibits SOC mineralization by increasing biochemical recalcitrance or microbial activity [191, 192]. Field experiments over three years demonstrate significant improvements in soil carbon sequestration with biochar addition [193]. Various studies confirm biochar's efficacy in enriching the SOC pool and reducing GHG emissions in agricultural soils [194–198]. Feedstock and pyrolysis conditions are critical factors influencing biochar's effectiveness [199]. Zhang et al. [200] found that biochar addition increases recalcitrant carbon in soil, reducing carbon cycling enzyme activity while enhancing phosphorus, nitrogen cycling enzyme, and oxidase activities. They suggest combining biochar with nitrogen fertilization for enhanced carbon sequestration. Rahman et al. [201] report that biochar application from sugarcane bagasse improves SOC retention and other soil quality parameters. Han et al. [38] demonstrate significant increases in carbon sequestration and reductions in net global warming potential with apple wood-derived biochar application, offering promise for mitigating global warming concerns related to apple production.
