Can you use Biochar in Green Roofs?
The loss of green space and shading is a significant factor in increased urban heat. Using Biochar in Green Roofs is a sustainable solution and many landscapers are now adding enriched biochar instead of perlite because of its many additional benefits.
Carbon Gold Soil Improver is a sustainable way to retain nutrients in the planting medium Our Soil Association-approved biochar is lightweight and requires less watering as a result of improved water-holding capacity, as well as improving natural filtration, structure and load-bearing capacity of the substrate. Additionally, its large surface area (porosity) allows it to adsorb impurities and pollutants more effectively, as well as reducing the natural runoff of specific minerals such as copper, zinc and aluminium.
Adding enriched biochar to green roofs have a multitude of benefits which include:-
- Creating a Natural Habitat
- Reducing water runoff, due to an enhanced water holding capacity
- Filtration of pollutants into the atmosphere
- Improving building aesthetics
- In large quantities, a reduction in average city temperatures
Application rates for adding biochar made from a woody feedstock to a green roof vary depending on the existing media and the desired results. In general, adding around 15% enriched biochar by volume is a good starting point.
Making Living Walls using Biochar
Green or Living Walls are becoming more popular as space is becoming more limited. Adding biochar to living walls can help improve plant growth and health by providing a range of benefits, including improved water retention, higher nutrient availability, and better root development. Including biochar in living walls can also help to improve air quality by reducing carbon dioxide and other pollutants from the atmosphere.
When used correctly, biochar can be a great addition to living walls and help create a healthier environment for both plants and people. The benefits of using biochar in these instances are many and varied. If you are considering adding biochar to your next green roof or wall, be sure to speak with a professional who can advise you on the best application rate and method for your specific project.
Carbon Gold Biochar products have been enhanced with organic nutrients to create a more complete product. This is done by mixing the biochar with Soil Association-approved natural biology before it is applied to the green roof.
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