Lithos Carbon and Morin Ag Services use basalt for a groundbreaking dual purpose: carbon capture and soil enrichment. Their work is transforming farming and advancing climate solutions.
A unique partnership between Lithos Carbon and Morin Ag Services is transforming farming and climate science. By using crushed basalt, these companies are revolutionizing how carbon is captured and soil health is improved.
Basalt, a by-product of mining, is at the heart of this innovation. Through enhanced rock weathering—a natural chemical process—crushed basalt absorbs CO2 from the atmosphere and locks it in the soil for decades. Beyond carbon capture, the rock enriches the soil with critical nutrients like magnesium and calcium, boosting crop productivity and resilience against droughts.
As part of this initiative, SGI, a roofing granules manufacturer, is supplying basalt from its mining operations in Pembine, Wisconsin. Farmers near the mining sites will receive the basalt at no cost, enabling them to enhance their fields while contributing to carbon removal efforts. Every three tonnes of basalt can capture one tonne of CO2, making this solution both practical and impactful.
“This approach bridges environmental goals with agricultural needs,” said the companies. “It’s a powerful synergy of science, sustainability, and farming innovation.”
This project is a remarkable example of how industrial by-products can address pressing environmental challenges. It demonstrates that sustainability and productivity can work hand in hand, creating value for both farmers and the planet.
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