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Scaling Up Carbon Removal Efforts in India
Alt Carbon, an innovative climate-tech startup, has just secured $12 million in seed funding to expand its carbon dioxide removal initiatives in India. This significant backing is particularly timely as the global demand for sustainable solutions becomes increasingly urgent in the context of climate change. The startup utilizes enhanced rock weathering on farmlands, a process that allows for long-term carbon storage while simultaneously promoting soil health.
Turning Challenges into Opportunities
The inception of Alt Carbon came from a personal struggle: founders Shrey and Sparsh Agarwal's family tea estate in Darjeeling faced bankruptcy. Initially looking to revive their family business through carbon markets, they identified the potential of enhanced rock weathering. This approach can transform vulnerable regions, like Darjeeling, from facing climate threats to leading the charge in climate action.
Innovative Carbon Capture Through Basalt Dust
Alt Carbon’s method involves applying waste basalt rock dust to fields, a process that captures carbon dioxide while enriching the soil with essential nutrients. When combined with rainwater, this dust forms stable bicarbonate ions that can lock away carbon for millennia. This dual benefit of carbon removal and agricultural enhancement makes it a novel solution for both farmers and environmentalists.
Aiming High: Targets for 2030
With ambitions to scale up to 500,000 hectares of land, Alt Carbon aims to remove five million tons of carbon by 2030. This vision not only reflects the company's commitment to the environment but also holds potential for providing sustainable income for local farmers who participate in this groundbreaking project.
A Call for Broader Participation
The journey of alt carbon exemplifies how addressing environmental concerns can align with economic viability. The implications of scaling carbon removal technologies resonate beyond India, pointing to a global need for sustainable agricultural practices. As we navigate the complexities of climate change, numerous stakeholders—governments, investors, and citizens alike—can contribute to these innovative solutions.
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