Development of framework for deployment of Canadian agromineral waste as soil remineralizers with verifiable carbon drawdown potential

It is essential that additional carbon removal capacity and strategies are developed in the near term to facilitate Canada’s national climate goals. In addition, farmers are seeking sustainable methods of crop production that support soil health. Agromineral waste refers to materials generated from mineral processing activities that possess agronomic value in terms of potential benefits for plant and soil health, and some of these mineral also are capable of carbon removal through a process termed enhanced weathering. This project aims to evaluate a number of agromineral wastes (i.e., biotite, nepheline, pyroxene, and feldspar) for use as a carbon removal technology. Combining soil remineralization properties with carbon sequestration is a driving force to an effective business plan that not only increases agricultural productivity and promotes environmental sustainability but also generates financial returns through the creation of carbon removal certificates. This project will help the company expand into Canada and contribute to Canada’s environmental targets. By targeting the utilization of mineral residues in agriculture, the company can tap into a new and potentially lucrative market, and by focusing on utilizing agromineral residues from orphaned and abandoned mines, the company aligns with Canada’s environmental goals.

Faculty Supervisor:

Rafael M. Santos

Student:

Partner:

RE.K.OVER Inc.

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

University of Guelph

Program: