Yale Explores ERW Climate Solution with FedEx Support

In an attempt to mitigate climate change, researchers at Yale University are considering enhanced rock weathering as a potential solution. The research effort is part of FedEx's new goal to achive carbon neutral operations by 2040. In order to achieve that, FedEx even allocated $100 million in support.

Understanding Enhanced Rock Weathering

ERW is the spreading of finely grounded basalt on croplands to accelerate the rate by which this soil naturally absorbs CO2. The reaction of the basalt with carbon in the soil forms stable minerals, sequestering that carbon for the long run and improving soil health, acidity reduction, and crop productivity, thereby eliminating artificial fertilizer use.

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Promising Benefits and Scaling Potential

Enhanced rock weathering delivers environmental and economic benefits: the abundance of basalt means it has great prospects for scaling carbon sequestration. Researchers estimate that croplands in the US Midwest alone could store 1.5-2 million tons of carbon dioxide annually. Farmers could also benefit economically by selling carbon credits, creating a new revenue stream.

Yale’s Research Focus

The Yale Center for Natural Carbon Capture (YCNCC), established in 2021, is leading ERW research. The team is studying basalt’s effects on crops, soil, and water systems through detailed field studies. Their goal is to provide solid data on ERW’s feasibility and scalability. Researchers aim to confirm its potential for safe and effective carbon removal.

Addressing Global Challenges

Although the ERw method looks promising, it has only shown minor results. The researchers need more evidence gathered before scaling technology on a global level. The team at Yale is committmed to producing knowledge-based data to ensure ERW delivers reliable carbon removal credits.

If the researchers at Yale are right about the ERW method and its benefits, it will help combat climate change. With the ongoing research and collaboration, the technology might unlock new doors sustainable carbon sequestration.