Recent advances in livestock manure biochar Development in Korea: A review

In Korea, livestock manure (LM)-derived biochar is emerging as a key solution for carbon neutrality and sustainable LM management. With LM generation reaching approximately 50 million tons annually, more than 70% has been treated through composting and applied to farmland. However, composting has caused environmental concerns, including emissions of greenhouse gases (CH₄ and N₂O), ammonia (NH₃, a precursor of PM_2.5), and non-point source pollution adversely affecting water and soil quality. As a sustainable alternative, the Korean government has promoted the conversion of LM into biochar, which offers carbon sequestration, soil enhancer, environmental remediation, and bioenergy production. This review outlines recent advances in the transition from LM composting to biochar production. The feasibility of LM biochar (LMB) production has been demonstrated through systems like Manure-to-Biochar (MTB), which is based on highly efficient Counter Flow Multi-Baffle dryer (COMBDry) technology. Despite challenges such as high salt and heavy metal content, LMB shows strong potential for application in agriculture and environmental restoration. Ultimately, this transition represents a critical step toward achieving Korea's climate goals and sustainable agriculture.