Enhanced Rock Weathering

Enhancing Rock Weathering in the United Kingdom and United States

Enhanced rock weathering involves the spreading of crushed basalt rock onto agricultural land, permanently removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere for 100,000+ years. Enhanced rock weathering is a pioneering carbon removal method that accelerates a natural geological process, whereby the carbon dioxide in rainwater interacts with rocks and soil, mineralises and is safely stored in carbonate form.

For the last two years, UNDO has worked at the cutting edge of science alongside experts in the climate, carbon and agricultural sectors to develop an enhanced rock weathering process technology which mimics natural weathering processes to remove carbon from the atmosphere. Our partner’s nature-enabled climate technology is permanent, rapid and scalable, locking away up to 10 gigatonnes of carbon dioxide each year.

Enhanced rock weathering also has a positive impact on soil and ocean health. As this mineral-rich volcanic rock breaks down, it releases nutrients that promote crop growth and reduce the need for chemical fertilisers. In addition, the bicarbonate ions captured during the process of enhanced rock weathering are washed out to sea, helping deacidify our oceans and reducing the impact on coral reefs. The project also creates green jobs for local communities, with the partnership model drives profits back to the agricultural communities that are increasingly feeling the brunt of climate change.