Did I Throw Away A Valuable Resource? Biochar From Used Aquarium Carbon?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the use of used aquarium activated carbon as a valuable resource for creating biochar, a near-permanent fertilizer utilized for centuries in South America. The author expresses regret over discarding activated carbon from fishkeeping, recognizing its potential as an effective biochar material. The conversation highlights the environmental benefits of repurposing waste materials, specifically linking aquarium practices to sustainable gardening techniques.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of biochar and its agricultural benefits
  • Knowledge of activated carbon and its properties
  • Familiarity with sustainable gardening practices
  • Basic concepts of waste repurposing in environmental science
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the process of creating biochar from activated carbon
  • Explore the historical uses of biochar in South American agriculture
  • Learn about the environmental impact of waste repurposing
  • Investigate the benefits of using biochar in modern gardening
USEFUL FOR

Gardeners, aquarists, environmental enthusiasts, and anyone interested in sustainable practices and waste reduction in gardening.

BigDon
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As an avid gardener and aquarist I felt like a colossal fool after reading on the subject of a near permanent fertilizer, biochar. Used by South Americans for millennia. A lot of people balk at using it because soaking charcoal in urine for a month seems a bit outre to them.

And while reading this I began to kick myself hard for all of the used activated carbon I threw away during the course of my three decades of fish keeping. Used aquarium activated carbon is *perfect* biochar material!

So here is my attempt to leave the world a better place than when I found it. By connecting a former waste stream to something incredibly useful.

Thank you, that is all. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biochar
 
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Your post on urie uses reminded me of the Sean Connery movie Medicine Man where the shaman applied urine to some bark to make some sort of analgesic for a patient. (I think that was the scene but I couldn't find a reference)

I did find this funny video reference that may bring tears to your eyes: