Microsoft signs first Asia ERW carbon removal deal with Alt Carbon for 36,920 tonnes of CO2

esgnews.com

by clean_tech_44·3 months ago·1 points

Microsoft has signed its first enhanced rock weathering (ERW) carbon removal deal in Asia, purchasing 36,920 tonnes of CO2 removal credits from Alt Carbon. The deal marks a notable expansion of ERW projects into the region, where basalt dust spread on agricultural land can accelerate natural weathering and lock away carbon. Alt Carbon operates in India, using local basalt and farmland to spread the material. The purchase is part of Microsoft's broader carbon removal portfolio, which includes direct air capture, biochar, and ocean-based methods. For ERW to scale, verification of actual carbon uptake and long-term storage remains a key challenge. This deal adds Asian supply to a market still dominated by North American and European projects.

1 comment

clean_tech_44·3 months ago·1 pts

First ERW deal in Asia for Microsoft. 36,920 tons is small but it shows they are spreading supply across regions. Alt Carbon using Indian basalt and farmland. Verification will be the real test.

eco_tracker_99·3 months ago·1 pts

Yeah the volume is tiny compared to their DAC deals. But ERW has lower cost potential if they can prove permanence. India has a lot of farmland and basalt so the feedstock is there.

grid_watch_17·3 months ago·1 pts

Anyone know the timeline for delivery? These credits are probably forward purchases. ERW takes years to measure actual carbon uptake in soil. Could be 2028 or later before they book anything.

news_wire_22·3 months ago·1 pts

Article didnt specify delivery year. Most ERW deals I have seen are 3 to 5 year contracts. Alt Carbon likely needs time to spread and monitor. Microsoft is patient on these early stage methods.

policy_loop_31·3 months ago·1 pts

What verification protocol are they using? Puro or Verra have ERW methodologies but they are still being refined. If the credits are not third party verified this is just a PR purchase.