Silicate rocks increase crop yields and limit CO2 emissions

In a study published in Nature Plants on February 19, scientists at Sheffield University (UK) proposed the idea of ​​adding silicate rocks to agricultural land to increase crop yields, in when limiting CO ₂ emissions.

The scientists explained that the increase in crop production is due to silicate rock that helps protect plants against pests and diseases, while improving the structure and fertility status of the soil.

'People have known for a long time that volcanic plains are very fertile, the ideal place for farming without causing negative health effects. However, there are still few people who are interested in how to add more rock to land to capture carbon , 'said David Beerling, director of the Sheffield University Leverhulme Climate Change Mitigation Center. know.

Adding ice to the soil can increase plant health and help absorb CO2.(Photo: Pixabay).

Silicate rocks , such as basalt , are formed from volcanic eruptions in ancient times. When introduced into the soil, they will disintegrate, creating a chemical reaction that helps absorb and store CO ₂ in the soil. This reaction also contributes to the release of nutrients in stone, helping plants grow.

Unlike other CO2 capture methods, the addition of ice to the soil does not require a change of land use purpose or more water is needed. In addition, many farmers often spread limestone on the soil to reduce acidification.

'According to our proposal, changing rocks and increasing utilization rates would be like using crushed limestone, but help the soil absorb CO ₂ from the atmosphere and store not only in the soil, but also the ocean , 'said Stephen Long, a professor at the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana (USA).

To prevent global warming, scientists believe that people have to find different ways to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and eliminate more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

'The strategy of separating CO2 from the atmosphere is now in research programs. We need to assess the reality of these strategies, what they can bring and what are the challenges , 'said James Hansen at Columbia University (USA).