Summary/Abstract
One of the major motivations for the use of biochar is environmental improvement, both to improve soil quality and to reduce atmospheric greenhouse gas (GHG) concentrations. However, if biochar is produced or used inappropriately it could cause more harm to ecosystems, human health and GHG concentrations than benefit them – a situation to be avoided. Regulation and legislation, as well as voluntary standards, aim to ensure that biochar use is not environmentally counterproductive. This chapter, from the book Biochar in European Soils and Agriculture, covers two main topics: first, the currently known potential risks – or undesirable outcomes – from biochar production and use are identified and explained. Second, the regulations and legislation applicable to biochar in some European countries is outlined.