Hyderabad: Scientists at the University of Hyderabad have developed a low-energy method to transform geranium waste into biochar, offering a new pathway for improving soil fertility and crop health.
Led by Prof. Appa Rao Podile from the School of Life Sciences and Prof. Dr. Ing. VVSS Srikanth from the School of Engineering Sciences and Technology, the interdisciplinary research team turned discarded geranium leaves into a mineral-rich, carbon-dense biochar. The findings were published in Biomass and Bioenergy (Elsevier, November 2025).
The processed biochar contained 65% carbon and vital nutrients including calcium, potassium, and magnesium. It also exhibited alkaline properties. When applied to soil, it enhanced the growth and nutrient uptake of Rosemary plants, demonstrating strong potential as a sustainable soil additive.
The production process consumes only 9 kWh per batch, making it more cost-efficient than many commercial alternatives. Supported by DBT, DST-FIST, and the IoE-UoH program, the project aligns with national goals for circular bioeconomy and sustainable agriculture.
Prof. Podile stated the study highlights “how industrial waste can become a sustainable soil enhancer.” Prof. Srikanth added that collaboration across disciplines enabled a “holistic, environmentally impactful solution.”