Research indicates that Enhanced Rock Weathering could contribute up to 45% of the carbon removal required for the UK to reach net-zero by 2050.
The potential of rock fines, a low-cost by-product of quarrying in Kent and across the UK, is being harnessed to sequester atmospheric CO2 for millennia. Research indicates that Enhanced Rock Weathering could contribute up to 45% of the carbon removal required for the UK to reach net-zero by 2050, equating to 6-30 million tonnes of carbon. Additionally, when this rock dust is applied to fields and weathers, it releases essential micro- and macronutrients that improve soil health. Small-scale studies suggest this process can increase crop yields by 12-16%.
This initiative will investigate the effects of particle size and rock type, in collaboration with regional quarry partners, alongside optimizing application rates to maximize carbon sequestration and soil health benefits. A comprehensive measure-report-verify system will be established, incorporating chemical analyses from both laboratory and field trials conducted on diverse farms. This framework will support the scalability of the approach, potentially creating new revenue streams for farmers while enhancing soil productivity.
The project also aims to demonstrate a novel waste-to-productivity model that bridges the gap between quarry owners and farmers—two sectors that have not traditionally collaborated.
This is a Growing Kent and Medway Business Innovation Voucher funded project.
Academics involved: Dr. Robert Barker | Business involved: UK Carbon Code of Conduct