The Unlikely Buddha

  Concrete production is a major contributor to climate change, releasing around 7% of global CO2 emissions. This is largely due to the use of limestone, a naturally occurring carbon sink that releases its stored carbon dioxide when heated to high temperatures during the cement manufacturing process. However, a promising alternative has emerged: carbon silicate. This mineral, found in rocks like basalt, offers a potentially revolutionary solution to the carbon footprint of cement. Here's why carbon silicate is so exciting: Naturally low in carbon: Unlike limestone, carbon silicate doesn't contain significant amounts of carbon dioxide. This significantly reduces the emissions associated with cement production. Carbon sequestration potential: Carbon silicate can actually absorb and store carbon dioxide during the hardening process. This means concrete made with carbon silicate can actually help to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Lower production temperatures...

  While carbon dioxide (CO2) often dominates the conversation about climate change, it's crucial to recognize that the issue extends far beyond this single greenhouse gas. Fossil fuel burning, the primary driver of climate change, releases a complex mix of pollutants that impact both the environment and human health. To understand the full scope of the climate crisis and develop effective solutions, we must delve deeper than CO2 and acknowledge the diverse factors at play. Greenhouse Gases: Beyond CO2 CO2 may be the most prevalent greenhouse gas, but it's not alone. Methane (CH4), a potent warming agent with 80 times the warming potential of CO2 over 20 years, is primarily emitted from agriculture, landfills, and natural gas production. Similarly, nitrous oxide (N2O), with 265 times the warming potential of CO2 over 100 years, arises from agricultural practices, fossil fuel combustion, and industrial processes. Both methane and nitrous oxide contribute significantly to short-...