Enhanced Rock Weathering: Driving Australia Toward Net Zero

Enhanced Rock Weathering (ERW) is one of four novel technologies highlighted in CSIRO’s Australian Carbon Dioxide Removal Roadmap, launched late 2025, as critical for Australia achieving net zero emissions by 2050. CSIRO projects ERW could capture 22 million tonnes of carbon dioxide annually by 2050, around 5% of Australia’s 2025 emissions. 

Key challenges and research areas in the CDR Roadmap towards which this project contributes are:

  • Improve measurement, reporting & verification (MRV): Current methods comprise a major cost for ERW. The project is obtaining accurate, direct field measurements that are essential for developing robust and cost-effective MRV approaches.
  • Optimise supply chains: The project is working with miners, farmers, regulators, and farm produce buyers to create a robust and sustainable value chain.
  • Understand carbon removal potential and efficiency: Existing models rely on assumptions which may be inaccurate. The project is accurately measuring the carbon cycle across diverse farming conditions (soil types, climates, irrigation) to fine-tune predicted CO2 removal levels.
  • Demonstrate opportunity for farmers and landowners: Implementation needs to be strategic, maximising benefits and economic returns, which depend on farming systems and basalt sources. The project is identifying situations likely to be optimal and measuring co-benefits to soil health and crop productivity in on-farm demonstration sites.

The Farmer & Industry Interest

There is significant interest from farmers, driven by the dual benefits of soil improvement, reducing reliance on costly fertilisers and the potential income from CO2 removal.

Carbonaught co-founder, Andrew Pedley notes growing global demand for net zero farming, accelerating adoption ahead of Australia’s 2050 target. Andrew said Carbonaught is working to develop markets and make a case to the Australian Government to recognise the potential of ERW, urging government bodies and industry to explore its benefits for meeting international market demands for low-carbon products.

While the CSIRO Roadmap suggests potential in all states, Pedley  thinks the potential is strongest in Eastern Australia, due to basalt source proximity and higher rainfall.

Carbonaught also recognises the importance of social acceptance and is supporting a new iPhD position, with University of Queensland and CSIRO, to research the ‘Adoption and scaling of novel carbon dioxide removal through enhanced rock weathering in regional Australia’ addressing a key recommendation in the CSIRO Roadmap.

Key Research Finding

The first studies on ERW in Australia, led by Professor Paul Nelson show soil type and acidity significantly influence CO₂ removal. Results indicate lower rates than predicted in tropical regions, prompting global ERW deployment companies to adjust their operations.

With continued research, investment in improved MRV protocols, and strategic implementation, ERW could play a key role in CO2 removal, delivering not only a vital climate solution but also significant soil improvement and economic benefits for Australian producers.

Link to CSIRO Carbon Dioxide Removal Roadmap