Integrating enhanced rock weathering and soil organic carbon for carbon removal in the corn belt
A solution integrating Enhanced Rock Weathering (ERW) and Soil Organic Carbon (SOC) into water-limited cropping systems to reduce irrigation and enhance carbon removal. Utilizing machine learning for irrigation decisions, it offers economic incentives through carbon credits.
Overview
This innovative solution aims to integrate Enhanced Rock Weathering (ERW) and Soil Organic Carbon (SOC) into water-limited cropping systems in the Corn Belt. By aligning water conservation with carbon removal goals, this approach provides farmers with economic incentives through carbon credits. It leverages machine learning and real-time soil monitoring to optimize irrigation strategies, supporting both crop resilience and climate goals.
Technical specifications
- Enhanced Rock Weathering (ERW): Utilizes naturally occurring minerals to accelerate carbon capture in soils.
- Soil Organic Carbon (SOC): Enhances soil health and carbon storage capabilities.
- Machine Learning Tool: Analyzes soil moisture and SOC data to guide irrigation decisions in real-time, minimizing water use while maximizing carbon removal.
- Rapid SOC Fractionation Method: Prototyped for real-time feedback to support irrigation control.
- Techno-Economic Modeling: Evaluates the viability of irrigation strategies under carbon credit scenarios.
- MRV Protocols: Developed in collaboration with industry partners to ensure credible carbon removal quantification under varying moisture conditions.
Technology readiness level
This solution is currently at Technology Readiness Level 4, indicating that it has been validated in a laboratory environment. Ongoing collaborations with field data providers in Ontario and the U.S. are facilitating immediate testing and deployment to advance its readiness level.
About University of Guelph
The University of Guelph is a comprehensive, mid-sized public research university in Guelph, Ontario. Industry partners engage through an on-campus research park and the Ontario Veterinary College’s teaching hospitals, which enable product evaluation and clinical translation. The university’s Arboretum and the nearby Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Guelph Research and Development Centre offer living laboratories and federal linkages that support collaborative R&D. Research is backed by competitive federal funding and strong provincial support via the Ontario Agri‑Food Innovation Alliance. The Research Innovation Office serves as the university’s technology transfer and industry liaison hub, supporting IP, licensing, and co‑funded partnerships.
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