Home / Environment / UK Rocks Turn CO2 into Stone: Climate Solution?
UK Rocks Turn CO2 into Stone: Climate Solution?
18 Nov
Summary
- Volcanic rocks can safely store millions of tonnes of CO2 by mineralizing it.
- UK sites like Co Antrim and Isle of Skye could store 3,000 million tonnes of CO2.
- This process involves injecting dissolved CO2 into volcanic rocks deep underground.
Scientists in Edinburgh have identified UK volcanic formations capable of safely storing millions of tonnes of carbon dioxide by transforming it into rock. Several underground sites across Northern Ireland, Scotland, and England possess the necessary calcium and magnesium to facilitate this carbon mineralization process.
This method involves injecting captured CO2 dissolved in water deep into volcanic rocks. Within the rock formations, the carbonated water solidifies into mineral stone, offering a permanent storage solution. Mid-range estimates suggest the Antrim Lava Group alone could store 1,400 million tonnes of CO2.
Similar pilot projects in Iceland and the US have shown positive results, indicating the viability of this approach for large-scale carbon capture and storage. Researchers emphasize that safe, permanent CO2 storage is crucial for limiting global warming, and mineralisation presents a practical option for the UK.
