Abstract: Biomass-derived black carbon, also named biochar, has the characteris tics of high stability against decay and high capability of adsorption, and can affect the environment through its interactions with climate and geology, playin g a significant role in global climate change, carbon biogeochemical cycle, and environmental system. In recent years, more and more researchers in the fields o f atmospheric sciences, geology, and environmental science focused on the enviro nmental behavior and effect of biochar. As one possible source of the components with high aromatic structure in soil humus, biochar is of great importance in i ncreasing soil carbon storage and improving soil fertility, and in maintaining t he balance of soil ecosystem. This paper offered the latest information regardin g the characteristics and biotic and abiotic oxidation mechanisms of biochar, it s effects on global climate change, and the environmental effect of biochar in s oil. Research prospects were briefly discussed on the environmental behavior and effect of biochar in soil ecosystem.

Key words: global change, soil fauna, biodiversity, ecological process.