Krommenie, Netherlands
Olivine weathering: Olivine is a mineral that naturally absorbs CO₂ from the air. When it breaks down through weathering, it turns CO₂ into stable minerals, permanently storing the carbon. By spreading crushed olivine on surfaces like paths and beaches, this process can help capture and store atmospheric carbon efficiently.
Permanence: 1000+ years
Project: Clean2Anywhere is a collective who realise inspiring projects with waste. Olivine has been used as the roof ballast for Tiny Houses that Clean2Anywhere has built in Krommenie, largely made from secondary materials such as plastic waste and discarded jeans.
Olivine converts CO₂ into lime when it comes into contact with rainwater – a natural process called weathering, comparable to the rusting of iron. During weathering, the olivine reacts with CO₂ and water (rain). The chemical reaction releases silicate, bicarbonate and magnesium. Because the CO₂ is converted into other substances, it can no longer be released. As long as it doesn't reach 1600 degrees on Earth, it is a permanent solution for capturing CO₂.
