#United States #North Carolina #carbon capture #Sunrock Industries #Lithos Carbon

Pioneering Carbon Capture in North Carolina

Sunrock Industries, a notable construction materials provider based in North Carolina, announced a significant partnership with Lithos Carbon, marking a new chapter in carbon capture technology. This groundbreaking initiative features the innovative approach of enhanced rock weathering, utilizing basalt fines from Sunrock's Butner Quarry. This project aims not only to capture carbon dioxide but also to promote agricultural productivity and improve soil health in the surrounding communities.

Mary Yap, Co-Founder and CEO of Lithos Carbon, expressed that this collaboration has propelled their carbon removal efforts forward across North Carolina. She highlighted Sunrock's deep-rooted connections and family-oriented values as vital components in realizing this project, benefiting both the environment and local agriculture. According to Yap, Sunrock's commitment to sustainability is evident at every phase of this initiative.

The project represents North Carolina's first deployment of enhanced rock weathering technology, positioning the state as a leader in innovative climate solutions. The basalt fines generated in the quarry contain essential minerals that naturally sequester carbon dioxide. When distributed on farmland, these rock particles engage with moisture and atmospheric carbon to initiate a speedy version of mineral weathering—a natural process employed by Earth to regulate carbon levels for billions of years.

Alex Culpepper, Vice President of Corporate Business Development at Sunrock Industries, shared insights on the Butner quarry, being the only rail-served pure basalt quarry in the region, which stretches from Manassas, Virginia, to the Gulf of Mexico. He noted that the exploration that started two years ago has blossomed into a robust climate solution. Importantly, this project opens new economic opportunities for local farmers, as the basalt produced contains rich minerals suitable for carbon sequestration while providing valuable nutrients for agriculture.

The benefits of using basalt fines extend far beyond carbon capture financial incentives. These materials are enriched with essential nutrients like phosphorus and various micronutrients such as zinc, iron, and boron, all vital for crop growth. Similar in texture and appearance to agricultural limestone, basalt fines can be applied with standard farming equipment, offering a slow-release source of vital nutrients aimed at boosting soil regeneration and enhancing crop yields.

Culpepper further emphasized the importance of this partnership, indicating that it transforms previously considered excess quarry materials into a potent instrument for combating climate change. The first deliveries of Butner rock fines to local farms commenced in late October 2022, immediately kicking off carbon dioxide removal efforts. The burgeoning demand for permanent carbon removal solutions positions basalt as a scalable alternative in agriculture.

This partnership exemplifies how traditional industries can contribute significantly to climate solutions and create new value streams. Urban farming initiatives can anticipate the Butner Quarry evolving into a cornerstone supplier for regional carbon removal projects, furthering sustainability efforts.

About Sunrock Industries

Sunrock Industries is a family-owned enterprise with over 75 years in the construction materials sector, based in Raleigh, North Carolina. They provide a comprehensive range of products including aggregates, recycled materials, hot mix asphalt, and ready-mixed concrete across the Raleigh-Durham area. Their dedication to environmental stewardship positions them as responsible community members and preferred suppliers in the industry. To learn more, visit their website.