Overview: A natural solution to a global problem
Scientists at the University of Edinburgh have identified underground volcanic formations in the United Kingdom that could permanently store carbon dioxide by turning it into solid rock. This natural process, known as mineralization, converts CO2 into stable minerals, effectively locking away greenhouse gases for millions of tonnes. If scalable, this approach could complement other carbon capture and storage (CCS) methods and contribute to meeting climate targets with a lower risk of leakage.
What is mineralization and why does it matter?
Mineralization happens when CO2 reacts with minerals in certain rock types to form solid carbonates. Unlike captured CO2 injected as a supercritical fluid, mineralized CO2 is stably bound within the rock matrix, reducing the possibility of long-term leakage. The UK’s geological landscape, featuring ancient volcanic formations and basaltic rocks, presents promising conditions for this natural mineral trap to form over geologic timescales.
Research highlights from the University of Edinburgh
The Edinburgh team conducted field surveys and modelling to identify pores, fractures, and mineral compositions that could accelerate mineralization in underground volcanic systems. Their work suggests that specific rock formations could provide a protective environment where CO2 can react with magnesium and calcium-rich minerals to create stable carbonates. While laboratory results are encouraging, real-world validation in UK sites is a critical next step, including pilot projects and long-term monitoring.
Why the UK is well-placed for this approach
Britain’s geological history includes long periods of volcanic activity, producing rocks that are rich in minerals favorable to CO2 reactions. The country’s suitability for mineral storage lies in accessible subsurface formations, existing drilling expertise, and a regulatory framework that could support pilot projects without disrupting local communities or ecosystems. If proven scalable, mineralization could offer a durable carbon sink with potentially lower maintenance costs than some other CCS methods.
Benefits and challenges
Benefits: Permanent sequestration of CO2 inside solid rock minimizes the risk of leakage, reduces long-term monitoring needs, and leverages natural geological processes. It could be deployed in tandem with other CCS techniques to address emissions from heavy industry, power plants, and construction sectors.
Challenges: The rate of mineralization depends on rock chemistry, temperature, and permeability. Implementing large-scale operations requires careful site selection, robust monitoring, and public acceptance. Economic viability and regulatory pathways will also influence how quickly mineralization projects move from research to real-world application.
Pathways to deployment
Researchers emphasise that pilot projects are essential to verify the practical aspects of mineralization in UK geology. These pilots would test CO2 injection, track mineral formation, and assess environmental impacts. If successful, a framework could be developed for integrating mineralization into national climate strategies, complementing direct air capture, enhanced weathering, and traditional CCS.
What this means for climate goals
Permanent mineralization offers a promising route to reduce atmospheric CO2 while leveraging natural geological processes. While more research is needed to confirm feasibility at scale, the Edinburgh findings contribute to a broader portfolio of tools to meet emissions targets. As policy makers seek durable, low-risk solutions, mineralization could become a key component in a diversified strategy to curb climate change.
Conclusion
Ancient volcanic rocks storing CO2 through mineralization could represent a natural, long-lasting method to lock away carbon. With UK sites identified and ongoing research, the concept moves from theory toward practical testing. The coming years will reveal whether mineralization can be scaled to meet the world’s growing demand for safe, permanent carbon storage.
