Carbon Removal Using Geological Resources and Mine By-Products

[Geoengineering News]

https://link.springer.com/rwe/10.1007/978-3-031-87501-4_67-1

Authors: Liam A. Bullock & Juan Alcalde 

26 May 2026

Abstract

Geochemical carbon dioxide removal (CDR) offers a promising pathway for achieving durable reductions in atmospheric CO2 by leveraging natural and industrial alkaline materials. This approach relies on the controlled weathering of predominantly silicate-bearing rocks, as well as the use of industrial by-products, to generate stable bicarbonate ions and carbonate minerals, removing CO2 on human-relevant timescales. Commonly targeted feedstocks include mafic and ultramafic igneous rocks, calc-silicate formations, and residues from mining and industrial operations, selected based on chemical composition, abundance, reactivity, and environmental safety. Industrial by-products, such as mine tailings and steel slags, offer additional benefits by valorizing waste streams while providing reactive cations. The kinetics of mineral weathering strongly influence CDR rates, with particle size, temperature, water availability, CO2 concentration, and biological activity being key factors. Effective deployment requires careful site selection, considering existing infrastructure, water supply, land availability, and integration into operational processes. Environmental considerations, including heavy metal mobilization and ecosystem impacts, must be addressed through robust monitoring, reporting, and verification frameworks. Furthermore, accurately quantifying the net CDR efficiency presents significant hurdles, requiring ongoing refinement of measurement techniques within these frameworks. Policy and regulatory factors also play a role in the feasibility and timing of implementation. While challenges remain, the sector holds substantial potential to contribute to gigatonne-scale CDR, offering cobenefits such as soil enhancement, resource efficiency, and alignment with circular economy principles. Geochemical CDR thus represents a scalable and versatile strategy to complement emissions reductions and support the long-term transition toward net zero and net negative emissions.

Source: Springer Nature Link