FAQ

Enhanced weathering is a form of CDR that involves the accelerated weathering of minerals to remove CO₂ from the atmosphere.

Enhanced weathering works by increasing the rate at which minerals, such as olivine, react with CO₂ in the atmosphere. The reaction converts the CO₂ into bicarbonate ions, which can be stored in the ocean.

Some examples of enhanced weathering methods include spreading crushed minerals on land or agricultural soils, and injecting minerals into the ocean.

Enhanced weathering can remove CO₂ from the atmosphere and thereby mitigate the effects of climate change. Additionally, it can also improve soil health and fertility, and provide a source of valuable nutrients for plants.

According to the IPCC Enhanced Weathering has a gigaton potential. Nevertheless, the weathering depends on a variety of factors, including climate conditions, the minerals applied and soil conditions. More field trials and data are therefore necessary. 

Enhanced weathering is one of the most promising CDR methods. While it holds potential as a solution to climate change, more research is needed to fully understand its potential and limitations.

Enhanced weathering is one of several proposed CDR methods and its effectiveness compared to other methods is still being researched. Advantages of Enhanced Weathering are its potential capacity to remove gigatons, the durability of carbon removal and its limited usage of energy.

The duration of Enhanced Weathering’s CO₂ removal from the atmosphere varies based on factors such as method applied, mineral quantity, and reaction rate with CO₂.

Yes, Enhanced Weathering can be used in conjunction with other CDR methods as part of a comprehensive strategy to reduce CO₂ levels in the atmosphere.

The cost of Enhanced Weathering depends on a variety of factors, including the specific method used, the scale of implementation, and the cost of the minerals used.