Cultivating local community trust in carbon removal (CDR)

As the first light of dawn touched the soils of Mboira, a village in Uganda, it brought with it a sense of anticipation. Under the ancient and revered baobab tree, the village elders gathered, their faces marked by years of wisdom. Around them, the youth and women sat attentively, eager to understand the significance of the visitors who had come to their doorstep.

“Why have you come?” The elder’s voice, steeped in the weight of tradition, broke the early morning silence. “What does Stack Carbon seek in Mboira?”

With this simple but profound question, the stage was set for a dialogue that would bridge tradition and innovation. Our mission was clear: to introduce Enhanced Rock Weathering (ERW), a new technique developed to combat climate change and boost local agriculture. But this wasn’t just a routine presentation; it was an open invitation for partnership—a call to co-create a future rooted in respect, collaboration, and shared purpose.

Early engagement: Laying the foundation for trust

“Why now?” a young voice interjected, filled with curiosity. “Why not wait until the project is more established?”

I smiled, understanding the underlying concern. Early engagement, we explained, is the cornerstone of responsible Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR). It’s not merely a procedural step; it’s an opportunity to build relationships from the ground up. By engaging with the Mboira community at the outset, we could anticipate concerns, build trust, and ensure that our ERW initiative was not only scientifically sound but also culturally and socially aligned with the community’s needs.

Engaging early allows Stack Carbon to identify potential challenges and resolve them before they can become obstacles. Understanding the community’s land use, cultural practices, and environmental priorities is essential to designing an ERW project that is both respectful and beneficial to the local way of life. This approach demonstrates our commitment to transparency, collaboration, and the shared goal of creating a sustainable future.

Moreover, by involving the community from the start, we empower them to shape the project’s direction. This ensures that the benefits of ERW extend far beyond carbon removal, contributing to the community’s long-term well-being. When the community has a vested interest in the project’s success, they become active participants in the global fight against climate change.

“But what’s in it for us?” The elders’ voices carried a note of skepticism, reflecting their concern for the future of their land.

The benefits of partnership: A shared vision

We painted a picture of shared possibilities. For Stack Carbon, early engagement was about more than just fulfilling requirements; it was about recognizing potential land-use conflicts, respecting local customs, and fostering goodwill. It was about ensuring that our project would thrive in an environment where it was truly welcomed.

For the Mboira community, this engagement represented agency—the power to influence their own destiny. We spoke of long-term benefits: soil revitalized through ERW, potential job opportunities, and a legacy of environmental stewardship. As our conversation unfolded, we could see the shift in perspective. The community began to see the project as more than just an initiative for carbon removal; they saw it as a pathway to resilience, a means to secure a sustainable and independent future for generations to come.

By accelerating the natural weathering of rocks, ERW captures atmospheric carbon dioxide and converts it into stable minerals, actively removing carbon from the atmosphere. This process also enriches the soil with vital nutrients, enhancing agricultural productivity and food security.

Additionally, the implementation of an ERW project in Mboira could create valuable job opportunities, from the transportation of materials to the management of project sites. This economic boost could significantly improve local livelihoods and contribute to the community’s sustainable development. Stack Carbon is committed to ensuring that the benefits of ERW are equitably shared and aligned with the community’s priorities.

Addressing concerns: Balancing tradition with science

“Will our land suffer?” The elders’ question was filled with concern and caution. “Will this project interfere with our rituals or sacred sites?”

We listened intently, understanding the depth of their concerns. ERW isn’t just about science; it’s about maintaining a delicate balance with the land and its people. We assured them that we would approach the project with the utmost respect, studying the soil’s response and taking care to protect the sacred groves where their ancestors are honored. In this way, we sought to build a bridge between the rigorous demands of scientific innovation and the deep reverence for cultural heritage.

To address these concerns comprehensively, Stack Carbon proposed conducting a detailed life cycle assessment (LCA) of the ERW project. An LCA examines the potential environmental and social impacts throughout the entire lifecycle of the project, from the extraction of materials to its conclusion. By quantifying these impacts, we can develop strategies to minimize any adverse effects on the land, water, and sacred sites.

Navigating complexities

As our discussions deepened, more complex concerns surfaced. “What about green grabbing?” one elder asked, his voice tinged with suspicion. The term “green grabbing” refers to the appropriation of land for environmental purposes, often at the expense of local communities.

We acknowledged the legitimacy of this concern. Green grabbing has, unfortunately, become a pressing issue in many parts of the world. We assured the Mboira community that Stack Carbon’s approach is rooted in respect for local land rights and community agency. Our goal is to work collaboratively, ensuring that the ERW project enhances, rather than diminishes, the community’s control over their land and resources.

We emphasized that the project would not proceed without the community’s full and informed consent. We are committed to transparent communication and equitable decision-making processes that prioritize the well-being and sovereignty of the Mboira community. This approach ensures that the project is not only environmentally sound but also socially just.

Health and safety: Protecting the community

The conversation then turned to concerns about the impact of rock dust on the soil and the potential health and safety risks associated with the ERW process. “Will the dust harm our crops? What about our health?” a young mother asked, her voice filled with worry.

We explained that while ERW involves the application of finely ground rock dust to the soil, extensive research has shown that this process can actually benefit soil health by replenishing essential minerals. However, we also acknowledged that the health and safety of the community are paramount. To this end, Stack Carbon is committed to conducting rigorous environmental and health impact assessments before any rock dust is applied.

We will implement strict safety protocols to ensure that the application of rock dust does not pose any risk to the community’s health or the environment. These measures include monitoring dust levels, using protective equipment where necessary, and ensuring that all activities are carried out in accordance with best practices for occupational and environmental safety.

Moreover, we will work closely with local health authorities to provide ongoing monitoring and support, ensuring that any potential risks are promptly identified and addressed. By prioritizing health and safety, we aim to create a project that not only benefits the environment but also safeguards the well-being of the Mboira community.

Forging a lasting connection: A blueprint for collaboration

“How will we stay connected?” one of the young villagers asked, eager to understand how their voices would continue to be heard.

We presented a plan—a blueprint for ongoing collaboration. We proposed the formation of a Community Stakeholder Group (CSG), composed of representatives from the Mboira community—elders, youth, and local leaders. This group would serve as a vital link between the community and our project team, ensuring that local perspectives are always considered in decision-making. Regular meetings would provide a platform to discuss project progress, address concerns, and celebrate milestones. By fostering open communication, we aim to build a relationship of trust and mutual respect with the Mboira community.

Conclusion: A future built on trust and collaboration

As the day drew to a close and the last rays of sunlight filtered through the leaves of the baobab tree, it became clear that ERW is about more than just rocks and carbon removal. It’s about people—their hopes, dreams, and their connection to the land. In the harmony between cutting-edge science and community engagement, we found a shared vision—a future where innovation meets tradition, and where the people of Mboira can dream of a sustainable tomorrow.

Stack Carbon’s journey in Mboira is just beginning. As we move forward with the ERW project, we carry with us the lessons learned from this initial engagement. We understand that responsible Carbon Dioxide Removal is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it requires a tailored approach that respects and uplifts the unique needs of each community.

By prioritizing early and meaningful engagement, we lay the foundation for a successful and sustainable partnership. We recognize that the road to a greener future is paved with collaboration, respect, and a deep understanding of the communities we serve. As we continue to explore the potential of ERW and other carbon removal technologies, we remain committed to working closely with communities like Mboira, ensuring that the benefits of our projects extend far beyond carbon reduction.

In the end, responsible CDR is about more than just science; it’s about the human connection. It’s about the stories we create, the bonds we strengthen, and the legacy we leave behind. As we stand beneath the ancient baobab tree, we know that our journey is not just about removing carbon from the atmosphere; it’s about planting the seeds of hope, resilience, and a sustainable future for all.