CIRCE Technology Center coordinates AGROCHAR, a new Operational Group focused on precision biochar application

CIRCE Technology Center coordinates the new AGROCHAR Operational Group, an initiative focused on the localized application of biochar through precision agriculture technologies. The project will assess the agronomic and technical viability of this strategy to improve soil management, optimize resource use, and promote long-term carbon storage in agricultural systems.

AGROCHAR will analyse the agronomic performance of biochar, a carbon-rich material obtained from valorised biomass, and its ability to improve the physical, chemical and biological properties of soil. The project will evaluate aspects such as water and nutrient retention, carbon stability, and the response of soils and crops following its application.

The objective is to generate technical knowledge on the potential of this material to increase agronomic management efficiency and contribute to a more effective use of available resources.

Development of precision application systems

One of the project’s main innovative elements will be the validation of localized biochar application systems integrated with agricultural machinery. AGROCHAR will assess technologies capable of automatically adapting the amount of biochar applied according to actual field conditions, improving application accuracy and optimizing the use of the material.

This approach will provide data on the technical feasibility of integrating automation and precision agriculture processes into the application of materials derived from biomass valorisation.

Trials in two agricultural areas of Zaragoza

The project will be carried out on agricultural farms located in the Central Zaragoza Region and the Belchite area. Field trials will take place on plots managed by Agrícola Mafer S.C. and the San Lamberto Cooperative of Zaragoza, while Larrosa Arnal S.L. will provide the precision agricultural machinery required for localized biochar application. This will allow the technology to be evaluated under real farming conditions and optimize application efficiency.

The work will make it possible to analyse both the agronomic response of the soils and the operational performance of the application systems under real working conditions.

CIRCE and biomass valorisation applied to agriculture

As the coordinating entity, CIRCE Technology Center will be responsible for the experimental design, technical monitoring of the trials, and evaluation of results. The centre will contribute its expertise in biomass valorisation, circular economy, resource optimization, and the development of technological solutions for the agri-food sector.

In addition to the field activities included in the project, CIRCE will conduct controlled trials in its experimental facilities and growth chambers to evaluate the effect of biochar on agronomic parameters and crop performance under different application conditions. The knowledge generated during this phase will help optimize biochar application strategies and subsequently validate their implementation in representative agricultural plots.

The results obtained will generate technical knowledge on the agronomic use of biochar and the application of precision technologies aimed at improving the efficiency of field treatments, facilitating their adaptation to real farming conditions and promoting a more sustainable management of agricultural resources.

Collaborative innovation for the agricultural sector

AGROCHAR is part of the Operational Groups of the European Innovation Partnership for Agricultural Productivity and Sustainability (EIP-AGRI), an instrument designed to foster collaboration among farmers, cooperatives, companies and technology centres to develop innovative solutions to specific challenges facing the agricultural sector.

The project has been selected under the GO 2026 call launched by the Government of Aragón, funded within the framework of the 2023-2027 CAP Strategic Plan, and will generate knowledge applicable to future soil management strategies, biomass valorisation and precision agriculture.