A new Anglo-French study suggests that spreading crushed volcanic rock on farmland could help remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere — and potentially boost crop yields. However, its effectiveness depends heavily on local soil conditions.
Researchers from Rothamsted Research (UK), INRAE (France), and the UK’s National Oceanography Centre tested basalt rock dust — a quarrying by-product — on two soil types: sandy and silty clay. In pot trials, they applied the dust at two rates (equivalent to 80 and 160 tonnes per hectare) and monitored changes in soil chemistry and ryegrass growth.
The method, known as enhanced weathering, accelerates the natural breakdown of silicate rocks, a process that draws CO₂ from the air and locks it into the soil. Supporters see it as a promising climate solution with co-benefits for soil health,
The post Rock Dust Could Help Fight Climate Change and Boost Crop Yields appeared first on Seed World.