A B.C. startup that has developed processes to speed up carbon sequestration at mine sites using mine waste has been awarded to $1.25 million grant to conduct a pilot project in Australia.
Arca is a B.C. company spun out of the University of BC. It has developed a process for speeding up a natural process whereby certain types of rock will permanently sequester carbon through mineralization.
The Centre for Innovation and Clean Energy (CICE) has granted the company $1.25 million to help it conduct a pilot project in Australia, in partnership with mining giant BHP (NYSE:BHP). The pilot project will take place over 18 months at BHP’s Mount Keith Nickel mine in Australia.
The Arca process uses automated rovers and surface manipulation machines on mine tailings to speed up the natural carbon mineralization process that occurs when certain minerals are exposed to air. The Arca process also measures and verifies the amount of carbon captured, and calculates the value in terms of carbon credits.
“Arca is truly a pioneer in engineered mineralization for carbon removal,” said CICE CEO Todd Sayers. “With CICE’s support, Arca is in a great position to accelerate large-scale implementation.”
“Arca’s innovative air-to-rock carbon mineralization project is an example of technology we need to accelerate towards a net-zero future by 2050, while attracting investment and reducing emissions today,” said federal Natural Resources Minister Jonathan Wilkinson. “As part of Canada’s Carbon Management Strategy, the federal government is pleased to support these developments across the country, including with our British Columbian partners at the CICE.”
