Researchers from the University of South Australia (UniSA) have investigated the potential of crushed basalt from quarries and mines to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
New research has suggested that crushed basalt can address aspects of climate change and mitigate acidic soils.
University of South Australia (UniSA) environmental researcher Dr Binoy Sarkar is leading an enhanced rock weathering trial. The initiative involves using crushed basalt on agricultural soils, and the researchers will monitor carbon capture.
“Large volumes of adequately fine rock particles – a byproduct of the mining and construction industry – can be bought for as little as $30 per tonne and applied to soils using existing farm equipment, with negligible expense,” Dr Sarkar said.
“Basalt does not completely replace chemical fertilisers, but it can cut fertiliser amounts needed to grow crops, saving farmers a lot of money and substantially improving their profit margins.”
UniSA researchers are working with James Cook University, the Tropical North Queensland Drought Hub, and industry partner Carbonaught Pty Ltd on two projects, funded by the Federal Government and Cascade Climate.
The team is being supported by $5 million fund from the federal government trial the technology nationally.
“I hope we can see a lot more trials in the next few years, to build confidence and propel a large-scale adoption of this rock weathering technology,” Dr Sarkar said.
“It will also provide opportunities for farmers and quarry owners to sell carbon credits and earn additional profits. Our farmers will be able to take advantage of this huge market when we have a strong monitoring, reporting and verification program for the technology.”
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