Sequestering carbon and improving sugarcane productivity by enhanced weathering of basalt

Sequestering carbon and improving sugarcane productivity by enhanced weathering of basalt

Advisor/s

A/Prof Paul Nelson, Prof Michael Bird

College or Research Centre

College of Science & Engineering

Summary of Project

Arresting the build-up of atmospheric CO2 is one of humanity’s biggest challenges. In geological time, the weathering of rocks consumes CO2, which is then sequestered as limestone in the ocean, but the natural rate of this process is very slow. This project’s aim will be to determine the feasibility of accelerating weathering by introducing crushed basalt (a common and easily weathered rock) into the place on earth with highest CO2 production and potential weathering rates – topsoil in the humid tropics. The effects on soil condition and crop growth, which are likely to be beneficial, will also be examined. The research will involve field work, laboratory work and modelling.

Key Words

greenhouse gas emissions; geoengineering; soil biology; biogeochemistry

Would suit an applicant who

with interest in: carbon cycling, agricultural land management, biogeochemistry and soil biology

Updated: 08 Apr 2020