Studied the first generation: Researcher from Germany for climate protection in Singapore!

Studied the first generation: Researcher from Germany for climate protection in Singapore!

München, Deutschland - On June 3, 2025, the Agnes Mackensen program at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) is highlighted as a pioneering project that promotes equal opportunities and strengthens talent. This program is aimed in particular at women, intersex, non-binaries, transsexuals and agenders (Finta*) who are the first to start studying in their family. An example of the success of this program is the master student Anna Lena Salfer, who is currently completing a research stay at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) in Singapore.

Salfer works as part of a research team that examines the potential of the "Enhanced Rock Weathering" method for carbon binding in agricultural soils. This innovative method aims to accelerate the natural weathering process in order to remove carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere. The spread of finely ground stone particles, especially from silicate rocks such as basalt, the CO₂ degradation in floors is supported. This can not only contribute to CO₂ reduction, but also improve soil fertility.

enhanced weathering - a key to carbon binding

enhanced weathering is a form of geoengineering that is a fundamental strategy to combat climate change. During the weathering, CO₂ is converted into bicarbonations, which enables carbon storage. When using this technology on agricultural areas, significant amounts of CO₂ could be bound in the long term-the length of stay of carbon in floors can be shortened from millions of years to decades.

However, the use of EW also brings challenges. This includes the high energy requirement for grinding the rocks, potential health effects through the inhalation of rock powder as well as risks of contamination of food by heavy metals. At the University of Illinois, the exact calculation of the weathering rates and carbon reduction potential is also being worked on to determine the efficiency of basalt rock additions in agricultural cultures such as corn and miscanthus.

The role of geosciences in climate research

The relevance of geosciences in the field of CO₂ reduction is undeniable. Studies show that CO₂ is an essential part of the carbon cycle and thus plays a central role in climate change. The reduction of CO₂ emissions is therefore of the highest priority. The main motifs include reducing the greenhouse effect, minimizing global warming and maintaining ecological balance.

Mathematical models are used in research on CO₂ emission determination. A frequently applied equation for calculating emissions is: emissions = energy consumption × CO₂ emission factor . A reduction in the CO₂ emission factor of 40% could reduce emissions from 100 tons of CO₂ to 60 tons.

• forests absorb around 30% of man-made CO₂ emissions.
• Co₂ reduction strategies include:
• Renewable energies (wind, solar, biomass)
• energy efficiency
• carbon capture and storage (CCS)

These approaches underline the need for innovative technologies and a strong educational foundation in order to promote sustainable practices for CO₂ reduction. The Agnes-Mackensen program and the activities of research teams such as that in Singapore ensure that knowledge and measures to combat climate change are synergetically connected.

For more information about the Agnes-Mackensen program at TUM, the method of the Enhanced Weathering or the role of the geosciences in climate research, visit The Conservation Foundation and Studysmarter .