Swedish researchers are developing technology to transform carbon dioxide into solid rock within years rather than millennia. A project at Luleå University of Technology shows promising results for carbon capture and storage on land instead of under the seabed. This approach could dramatically accelerate the natural carbon mineralization process.
Land-based carbon storage already operates successfully in Iceland. Swedish scientists now believe the method could work equally well in northern Sweden. Geological surveys have identified around twenty potential storage sites across the country. The bedrock surrounding Sundsvall and Örnsköldsvik shows particular promise for carbon storage capacity.
Glenn Bark, a researcher involved in the project, explained the current challenge. "We have the technology and knowledge to capture considerable amounts of carbon dioxide, but we lack places to store it," Bark said in a statement. The process involves capturing carbon emissions, dissolving them in water, and injecting the solution deep into bedrock. The acidic liquid reacts with rock formations to create carbonate minerals, effectively turning carbon dioxide into permanent stone.
Several obstacles remain before this technology becomes operational in Sweden. The country currently lacks specific legislation governing carbon dioxide storage. Bark emphasized that regulatory frameworks must develop alongside the research. "If we can capture and store parts of our emissions domestically, that represents progress," he noted. "But we must also emphasize that society's overall emissions need to decrease. We should view carbon storage as a complement to substantially reduced emissions."
This development comes as Sweden intensifies its climate efforts following recent extreme weather events across the Nordic region. The country has committed to ambitious emission reduction targets but faces challenges in hard-to-decarbonize industrial sectors. Carbon capture technology could provide a bridge solution while cleaner energy systems develop.
Northern Sweden's geology makes it particularly suitable for this approach. The region contains extensive basalt formations that react well with carbonated water. Similar geological conditions in Iceland have enabled successful carbon storage projects there. Swedish researchers are studying whether local rock compositions will deliver comparable results.
The technology's scalability remains uncertain. While laboratory tests show promise, large-scale implementation requires substantial infrastructure investment. Public acceptance of underground carbon storage also presents potential challenges, though land-based storage typically faces fewer objections than offshore alternatives.
This research represents Sweden's broader strategy to combine emission reductions with carbon removal technologies. As global temperatures continue rising, such complementary approaches may become increasingly necessary. The Swedish research team expects to conduct larger pilot projects within the next two years if regulatory and funding conditions align.