Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) recently announced a significant purchase agreement with UNDO, a company specializing in enhanced rock weathering (ERW) for carbon removal. This development signifies an expansion in Microsoft’s efforts to address climate change by removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. The collaboration between these two entities underscores the growing importance of innovative technologies in combating environmental challenges. Enhanced rock weathering, utilized by UNDO, accelerates natural processes to effectively capture and store carbon, which aligns with Microsoft’s goal of eliminating its carbon footprint.
What is Enhanced Rock Weathering?
Enhanced rock weathering (ERW) is a method that replicates natural geological processes for carbon removal. UNDO, based in London and established in 2022, has been at the forefront of utilizing this technology. By distributing crushed silicate rock on agricultural lands, the company enhances the speed at which CO2 is absorbed and stored in the soil. This method not only removes carbon but also enriches the soil, providing essential nutrients to the ecosystem. The company claims that this approach could potentially eliminate billions of tonnes of carbon dioxide, making it a viable solution for large-scale carbon reduction.
How Does Microsoft’s Commitment Affect ERW Initiatives?
Microsoft’s agreement with UNDO is not its first venture into carbon removal through ERW. An earlier agreement in 2023 facilitated the removal of 5,000 tonnes of CO2 by spreading crushed basalt across UK farmlands. The latest deal sees a commitment to remove 15,000 tonnes of CO2 by using 65,000 tonnes of crushed basalt and wollastonite in the UK and Canada. This partnership also aims to boost research in the ERW domain, focusing on measurement, reporting, and verification.
Jim Mann, CEO and Founder of UNDO, notes that the collaboration with Microsoft sends a strong message about the scalability of enhanced rock weathering. This partnership can drive scientific research, collecting data crucial for advancing ERW technology. Both companies view this as a pivotal step in scaling up carbon removal efforts.
Microsoft’s broader strategy includes a variety of carbon removal projects. Other agreements involve technologies like direct air capture, ocean-based solutions, and biochar, reflecting a diverse approach to tackling carbon emissions. Brian Marrs, Senior Director of Energy Markets at Microsoft, emphasizes their commitment to becoming carbon-negative by 2030, appreciating the multifaceted benefits of ERW projects.
Past reports highlight Microsoft’s increasing investment in eco-friendly technologies, focusing on large-scale carbon removal strategies. This has included partnerships with different organizations to explore nature-based solutions and BECCS (Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage), aiming to significantly reduce carbon emissions globally.
The collaboration between Microsoft and UNDO marks another step in the evolving landscape of climate technology. Enhanced rock weathering presents a promising option for large-scale carbon removal. This method contributes to soil health while capturing carbon, providing a dual benefit for environmental sustainability. The agreement also bolsters research, offering opportunities to refine and implement effective carbon reduction techniques. These efforts highlight the potential of collaborative approaches in addressing climate challenges, offering practical applications of advanced technologies for a healthier planet.
