The efficacy of biochar in improving soil health, crop productivity, land reclamation, and mitigation of climate change has been extensively studied over the last decade. This research has shown varied results, from clear improvements in soil health to almost no difference compared with the control, depending on the types of soil, crop, type of biochar, and the environment. Moreover, information is still very limited from large-scale field trials, probably because of the high costs of biochar in the market. Large-scale production of biochar from all kinds of organic wastes may help in reducing costs.

The greatest potential may be in having very targeted applications to address specific environmental concerns. A proper regulatory mechanism is required to avoid any possible risks of soil contamination due to potential contaminants present in biochar, and on the global GHG emissions when producing it, which should be considered when using it as a carbon sequestration strategy.