Sunrock Industries, a North Carolina-based construction materials firm, has launched a carbon removal initiative using enhanced rock weathering technology, in partnership with climate technology company Lithos Carbon. The collaboration marks the first deployment of such technology in the state.
The project involves spreading basalt fines—finely crushed rock by-products from Sunrock’s Butner Quarry—across agricultural land. These mineral-rich particles react with atmospheric carbon dioxide and moisture, accelerating a natural process of mineral weathering that sequesters carbon in the soil. The approach also improves soil health and provides nutrients that benefit crop yields.
The basalt used in this initiative is sourced from what Sunrock claims is the only pure basalt quarry in the region with rail access from Virginia to the Gulf of Mexico. The material contains essential nutrients, including phosphorus and micronutrients such as zinc and iron, and can be applied using conventional agricultural equipment.
Deliveries of basalt fines began in late October 2022, enabling immediate carbon dioxide removal on participating farms. While the primary goal is permanent carbon sequestration, the initiative is also seen as an economic opportunity for local farmers, who can benefit from both soil improvements and potential revenue from carbon credits.
Lithos Carbon co-founder Mary Yap said the project highlights how local industry and agriculture can collaborate on scalable climate solutions. The companies aim to expand deployment across the region amid growing interest in permanent carbon removal technologies.
